Core Wider Listening: Poulenc, Neoclassicism.

Question 1

Style?

Answer 1

Neoclassicism.

Question 2

Structure?

Answer 2

• Modified Ternary form.
• Exaggerated the contrast between A and B sections with a modulation to a relatively distant key (Eb from G).
• Change of tempo and drastic change of mood from spiky to lyrical to separate A + B.
• Bridges the gap between the end of the B going back to A by adding a linking passage that is similar to B in tonality but to A in general feel.
• And of the first A section has a humorous codetta that augments the rhythm of the opening idea.

Question 3

Harmony and tonality?

Answer 3

• Harmonic language is mostly diatonic with lots of primary chords (I, IV, V, I).
• Added note harmonies and some unorthodox dissonances.
• Second part of A is unstable with sporadic implications of the minor key in the horn.
• The tonal structure is unusual with a modulation to Eb from the opening G.
• Unexpected modulations at the end of the B section.

Question 4

Melody and rhythm?

Answer 4

• Melodies are short and memorable in the classical vein.
• The main idea is a simple descending triadic.
• Phrasing is often regular.
• The motif from the beginning undergoes a range of transformations, including rhythmic augmentation at the end of the A section.
• Touches of chromaticism.

Question 5

Texture and sonority?

Answer 5

• Instrumentation of horn, trumpet and trombone trio is an unusual combination.
• Strange uses of the instruments e.g. large leaps in trumpet.
• Reprise of the A section, the horn and trombone swap roles.
• Texture is mostly melody and accompaniment.
• Use of doubling in sixths and thirds.

Question 6

Things to listen out for in neo-classicism?

Answer 6

• Traditional sounding rhythms, melodies, harmonies etc. but given a twentieth century twist.

Question 7

Full title?

Answer 7

Poulenc, Sonata for Trumpet, Horn and Trombone, first movement (1922).