Defying Gravity Flashcards
Describe the tonality
Defying Gravity
Tonally ambiguous until Verse 1 (D major). There are many key changes - coda in B minor - but it ends in the tonic (D)
What tempos does the song go through?
Defying Gravity
Colla Voce
Andante
Moderato
Allegro
Define Colla Voce
Defying Gravity
Follow the voice
Why is a wide range of tempos used?
Defying Gravity
Signify the differences in moods between the characters
What does the wide use of perfect 4ths and 5th do?
Defying Gravity
Creates a strong and assertive mood
What two motifs are heard throughout?
Defying Gravity
A chordal motif
A three note chord motif
What is the chordal motif based off of?
Defying Gravity
Elphaba’s theme
Describe the structure
Defying Gravity
Clear verse - chorus structure
However there are contrasting sections and a coda
What expressive markings are used?
Defying Gravity
Accented chords
Legato melodies
Full range of dynamics (from pp to ff)
What range of textures are used?
Defying Gravity
Extremely wide range
Starts monophonic with stab chords
Then melody dominated homophony and polyphony
The coda is polyphonic
Describe the vocals
Defying Gravity
Range of conjunct and disjunct
Very wide range
How does the unlimited theme relate to the Wizard of Oz?
Defying Gravity
It uses the same first 7 notes (as over the rainbow) disguised with a different rhythm
Define the Metre
Defying Gravity
Changes often
Uses syncopation and crotchet triplets
What string technique is used to make it sound magical?
Defying Gravity
Tremolo
Describe the Bridge
Defying Gravity
G major (subdominant feels darker)
Slower tempo
4/4 Metre
