Schumann - Texture Flashcards
Chamber music is a “discursive form”. What does this mean?
This is where musical ideas are traditionally passed around the ensemble, as if in conversation
What impact does this “discursive form” have on the texture of the music int he trio?
The textures change frequently.
Why do the textures change frequently in the trio?
Because it is chamber music, which has a “discursive form”, meaning musical ideas are passed around the instruments.
In the opening 8 bars the violin plays the opening 2 first subject melody ideas whilst accompanied by the piano. What type of texture is this?
Homophonic.
From bar 9 onwards the piano now plays the melody in the RH. The texture is essentially homophonic, but how is it different to the homophony of the opening 8 bars?
The melody is accompanied by broken chords in the left hand, but the texture is augmented by
counter-melodies in both violin and cello.
The texture from bar 9 can be described as “polyphonically animated homophony”. Explain what this means.
The music has characteristics of polyphony (multiple layers of equal importance). The texture at bar 9 of the trio has some polyphonic character due to the
counter-melodies in both violin and cello.
What type of texture involves multiple layers of equal importance and imitation between the instruments?
Polyphony, sometimes known as “counterpoint”.
Why could you describe the texture at b115 in the development section as being busily polyphonic?
It contains passages of close imitation (bars 115–130) between cello and violin, and this, with the quaver figurations in the piano part.
Give an example of interplay/dialogue between the piano and violin.
Bar 34-38.
What is a pedal note?
A lower pitched note that is repeated for a period of time, whilst musical material moves above it.
What is the purpose of a pedal note?
(1) Emphasise a particular note within the texture to help with reinforce the key or approaching key
(2) Generate excitement and a sense of build.
(3) Allow elaborate music to take place above a stable bass.
What is the difference between the pedal note at bar 73 and bar 155?
Bar 73 dominant pedal in cello only, whereas dominant pedal in violin and cello (two octaves apart) at bar 155
What type of texture does the left hand does use in the lower register at bars 99–104?
Doubled octaves.
How would you describe the texture at bar 45?
Block chord textures.
What type of texture is used in the piano at bar 73?
Octave doubling between the hands.
