A Level Music: Kinderscenen by Schumann: No 1

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What is the structure?
Rounded binary form (A: BA). Each part is repeated (the first 8 bars are repeated at the end, after a 6-bar middle section). A doesn't modulate and is repeated. B is melodically distinct from A, with fleeting reference to E minor.
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Why rounded binary?
Rounded: the 2nd (B) section is rounded off by a return of the opening, and Binary: the double bar lines divide the piece into 2 sections
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What is the tonality?
G major with a modulation to E minor at bar 12 with no resolution to the tonic
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Discuss the harmony
Ambiguous harmonic touches. Sophisticated chromatic harmonies: diminished 7th: bars 1-3. Chord V usually has added 7th, heard in: 1st inv: bar 2, root: bar 7 and 3rd: bar 12. Perfect cadences: bars 21-22
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What is the metre?
2/4. Ambiguous as the continuous triplet rhythm obscures the metre
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Describe the rhythm
Dotted rhythms, frequent rhythmic blurring when the dotted pattern coincides with triplets, therefore performers are tempted to play rubato due to the ritardando followed by pause: bars 12-14
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Discuss the textures
Melody dominated homophony, balanced periodic phrasing, broken chords shared between both hands, 2-part counterpoint between outer parts: bars 9-14, sustained notes in inner parts: bars 5-14, contrast between legato and semi-staccato bass at start.
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What are the three textural layers in A?
Upper melody, inner quaver triplets and independent bass line.
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What are the textural layers in B?
The 3 layers continue but the notation is different: the upper melody is thickened in 3rds whilst the triplets become associated with the bass line as it adaps the meldody of bars 1-8.
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Describe the melody
Simple, entirely diatonic, repetitive: opening 2-bar phrase, sequence: bars 9-12, LH countermelody based on circle of 5ths: bars 9-12, range isn't extreme, bass melody: bars 9-12, borrows elements of opening bars.
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Where is there an example of juxtaposition of unrelated triads?
B major and G major: bar 12
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What thematic feature occurs in bars 1-2?
Rising minor 6th leap followed by a stepwise descent.
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Other cards in this set

Card 2

Front

Why rounded binary?

Back

Rounded: the 2nd (B) section is rounded off by a return of the opening, and Binary: the double bar lines divide the piece into 2 sections

Card 3

Front

What is the tonality?

Back

Preview of the front of card 3

Card 4

Front

Discuss the harmony

Back

Preview of the front of card 4

Card 5

Front

What is the metre?

Back

Preview of the front of card 5
View more cards

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