Styles of composers Flashcards
1
Q
Johann Sebastian Bach
A
- Increased use of Chromaticism, Dissonance
- Figured bass
- Ever-increasing orientation towards Tonality
- A variety of genres except opera
- Harmonic and contrapuntal elements in perfect balance
- Amazing combination of German, French and Italian characteristics
2
Q
Domenico Scarlatti
A
- 555 Sonatas for pianoforte
- Two or three thematic ideas, closely related but contrasts in mood
- No polyphonic texture, melody in high register, virtuosic left hand
- Harmonic coloration with bold dissonances
- Idiomatic writing (Rapid scales, division of figuration between hands, fast octaves, crossing of hands, trills in fast tempo, double notes, large skips)
3
Q
Joseph Haydn
A
- Follows conventions, but introduces surprises (Key element of his style)
- Use of folk melodies
- Lyrical 2nd movements
- Some baroque contrapuntal influence
- Ornamentations to sustain long notes
- Brilliant passagework
- Wit and humor
- Depth of feeling
- Never ending inventiveness
- Sonata form in all of his work
4
Q
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
A
- Orchestral effects
- Alberti Bass
- Affinity for counterpoint (studied Bach)
- Variety of textures
- Transparency/elegance
- Operatic influence
- Lyrical melodies
- Simple accompaniments
- Contrasting themes - Different characters singing
5
Q
Ludwig van Beethoven
A
- Sonata form always evolving
- Thick textures, orchestral effects
- String quartet textures
- Unprepared dynamic changes
- Rests used in a powerful way
- Virtuosic
- Momentum in the music (the engine)
- Pushes the limits of the piano
- New sonorities
- Thematic unity
- Gorgeous slow movements