Timbre & Dynamics

Question 1

Songs in musical theatre have to emphasise the drama and emotion of the story conveyed on stage, therefore it is crucial to implement dynamics and timbre correctly. As Schwartz is well-experienced writing for stage, he has included:

Answer 1

• a powerful chest range in Elphaba’s part to create an impact at bar 157
• some special instrumental techniques, such as guitar overdrive and tremolo
• accents and staccato articulations reflecting courage and defiance
• a slow-progressing dynamic crescendo which represents the confidence that Elphaba gains while singing Defying Gravity