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
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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)
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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
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4
Q

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

A
  • Orchestral effects
  • Alberti Bass
  • Affinity for counterpoint (studied Bach)
  • Variety of textures
  • Transparency/elegance
  • Operatic influence
    1. Lyrical melodies
    2. Simple accompaniments
    3. Contrasting themes - Different characters singing
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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
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