Electric Counterpoint

Question 1

When was this first performed?

Answer 1

1987

Question 2

How many guitars are used?

Answer 2

7 guitars, 2 bass guitars and a live guitar

Question 3

What is the first layer to be added?

Answer 3

Syncopated quaver motif in live guitar and top four guitars

Question 4

What is the second layer to be added?

Answer 4

New syncopated quaver motif in bass guitars

Question 5

What is the third layer to be added?

Answer 5

More sustained motif built around 3 chords in live guitar, transferred to remaining parts

Question 6

What happens at the end?

Answer 6

layers 2 & 3 fade out together, leaving layer 1 until it comes to rest on a held chord

Question 7

Which minimalist techniques are used?

Answer 7

Note addition, resultant melody, metrical displacement, polymetre, repetition, layered textures, diatonic harmony, slow harmonic rhythm and little instrumental variety

Question 8

What is the metre of this piece?

Answer 8

3/2 -> 12/8 -> 3/2

Question 9

What is the tempo of this piece?

Answer 9

Crotchet = 192

Question 10

What is the key signature of this piece?

Answer 10

Em -> Cm, uses hexatonic scales

Question 11

Describe the dynamics

Answer 11

Little variation throughout, panning used, changes with texture (parts fade out in a number of places)