Set Pieces - Superman

Question 1

Who composed the Superman theme?

Answer 1

John Williams

Question 2

When was the superman theme composed?

Answer 2

1978.

Question 3

What is the tonality of the superman theme?

Answer 3

C major (ends in G major)

Question 4

What is the time signature?

Answer 4

4/4 alternating with 12/8

Question 5

What is an ostinato?

Answer 5

When a rhythm or pattern of pitches is repeated throughout the passage of music

Question 6

Comment on the harmony of the superman theme

Answer 6

The cadence which occurs at the end of the first statement of the march theme is an illustration: the F major chord on the last beat of the bar (b. 25) is contradicted by G in the bass.

Question 7

Describe the first and fifth bar of the superman theme

Answer 7

A tonic pedal point is provided by a timpani roll over which the fanfare theme (a) is played in unison by trumpets and horns. A cymbal crash coincides with the highest note (E) which falls by step played by trumpets and horns.
The fanfare is repeated with trombones added an octave lower. Syncopated rhythm and an accelerando at the end lead into the faster march section, the next bar opening in a 12/8 Time signature with an ostinato in the bass clarinets and bassoon.

Question 8

Describe bars 14 18 and 26

Answer 8

A sustained note is held by the trumpet at bar 14, and later begins theme b

Theme (b) is repeated with the added brightness of the glockenspiel and scales in the woodwind which are doubled by the piccolo.

The next part of the theme (cellos) begins with three two-bar phrases which all start the same but then develop the falling second and triplet rhythm of the fanfare in different ways.

Question 9

Name 13 Instruments used in the Superman Theme

Answer 9

Violins
Cellos
Flutes
Piccolos
Clarinets
Saxophones
French Horn
Trombones
Trumpets
Snare Drum
Timpani
Cymbals
Piano

Question 10

What happens in bar 45 ?

Answer 10

The harmony changes suddenly to Db major over Gb in the bass thereby producing further tension

Question 11

What happens in bar 50?

Answer 11

The opening fanfare – theme (a) returns with full orchestration including rising woodwind scales.
A new section begins in F major. The rising legato melody in the horns is the love theme – theme (c) -though the ostinato rhythm is still present in the string background.

Question 12

What does maestoso mean?

Answer 12

To play a certain passage of music in a majestic fashion (sometimes march like)