Defying Gravity

Question 1

What is the structure of ‘Music for a While’ by Purcell?

Answer 1

Ternary Form: A-B-A’

The structure consists of three sections: A, B, and a modified return to A.

Question 2

How many repetitions of the ground bass occur in Section A of ‘Music for a While’?

Answer 2

5 repetitions

The ground bass is introduced and repeated five times in this section.

Question 3

What happens to the ground bass in the 5th repetition?

Answer 3

It is shortened

This occurs at bars 13/14.

Question 4

What key modulations occur in Section B of ‘Music for a While’?

Answer 4

• G major
• C major
• Return to A minor

These modulations contribute to the harmonic structure of the piece.

Question 5

What is the significance of the vocal melody’s first two entrances on the lyric ‘Music’?

Answer 5

First on the tonic, then on the dominant

This reflects Purcell’s clever use of harmony in relation to the ground bass.

Question 6

What is unusual about the ground bass length in ‘Music for a While’?

Answer 6

It is a three-bar ground bass

Typically, one might expect ground basses to be 4 or 8 bars.

Question 7

What is the general flow of the vocal phrases in ‘Music for a While’?

Answer 7

If one rises, the next generally falls

This creates a balanced melodic contour.

Question 8

What type of harmony is primarily used in ‘Music for a While’?

Answer 8

Harmony dictated by the ground bass

Primarily triads in root or first position.

Question 9

Define syllabic word setting.

Answer 9

One note per syllable

This method is used at bar 64 in ‘Music for a While’.

Question 10

Define melismatic word setting.

Answer 10

Several notes per syllable

This method contrasts with syllabic word setting.

Question 11

What is word painting in music?

Answer 11

Using music to describe the sentiment of the lyrics

Examples include pitch drops for the lyric ‘drop’ and a wandering melody for ‘wond ring’.

Question 12

What is the texture of ‘Music for a While’?

Answer 12

Homophonic, better described as melody and accompaniment

There are also moments of imitation.

Question 13

What instruments are featured in ‘Music for a While’?

Answer 13

• Soprano voice
• Harpsichord
• Bass Viol

These instruments contribute to the baroque style of the piece.

Question 14

What is a ground bass?

Answer 14

A constantly repeating bass line

Purcell’s ground bass revolves around the tonic and dominant of the key.

Question 15

True or False: The ground bass in ‘Music for a While’ remains static throughout the piece.

Answer 15

False

Purcell makes several changes to keep it engaging.