Something's Coming Analysis

Soomething's Coming, Bernstein

Dynamics

·         Tony starts singing pianissimo, in a half whispering style

·         Lots of crescendos used

·         The dynamics help create the excited/impatient feel

·         The accompaniment is quiet throughout.

Rhythm

·         Opens with tony singing offbeat syncopated accents

·         Cross-rhythms throughout

·         Several changes between 3/4 and 2/4

·         Can feel like 6/8 , with 2 dotted crotchets per bar

·         Uses triplets in theme C of the vocals e.g. ‘around the corner’

Tempo

·         Fats throughout – reflects Tony’s excitement

·         176 crotchet beats per min.

·         Tempo is kept feeling fast by the off-beat accompaniment.

Context

…