defying gravity

Question 1

describe the melody for defying gravity

Answer 1

syllabic word setting
wide range
mainly conjunct, some leaps
vocalisation
ascending sequence
leaps are usually perfect 5ths

Question 2

what is the main structure for defying gravity

Answer 2

verse chorus structure
choruses - allegro
verses - andante

Question 3

describe the dynamics

Answer 3

wide range of dynamics - helps convey the emotional intensity
use of crescendos helps build excitement and tension

Question 4

describe the harmony and tonality

Answer 4

written in D major

tonality is ambiguous at the beginning

modulates briefly to B minor in intro coming back to D major in the verse

outro in B minor, ends on D major chord

use of dissonance
use of pedal notes
uses of chromatic melodies

Question 5

describe the texture

Answer 5

mainly homophonic
intro begins monophonic
outro is contrapuntal/polyphonic
Elphaba and Glinda sing in unison creating warmth
colla voce used
ostinato accompaniment

Question 6

describe the rhythm and tempo

Answer 6

lots of tempo changes throughout

syncopation used

intro in 3/2, then 2/2
verse 1 in 4/4
bar 115 in 2/2

rests break up phrases
dotted rhythms
rallentandos

Question 7

describe the instrumentation

Answer 7

duet - female voices
uses big orchestra eg: strings, woodwind etc
synth and glockenspiel to give a magical feel
cymbal roll adds excitement
tremolo adds tension

Question 8

identify one musical technique used in defying gravity to convey emotion

Answer 8

the use of dynamics, particulary the contrast between soft and loud passages conveys Elphabas emotional journey