Romanticism Music Listening Elements Dr.
Eaton
Melody(direction,
step, leaps, smooth, sharp, symmetrical, predictable, singable, etc.)
The
Linear or horizontal aspect of music.
It is the succession of musical pitches. Usually related to an idea or musical statement. Classically a question and answer
but often just a statement of
idea. This idea may be expressed
as a short fragment(motive) which is then developed and transformed.
Rhythm
(Pulse)
The
movement of sound in time.
Indicated by pulses or beats which may be clear or very indistinct. The pulses also may be clearly
organized, regular, irregular, steady, variable etc.. The Character of the rhythm can dramatically change the
effect of a melody.
Harmony
(Tension and Release)
The
vertical aspect of music. The
sounding of two or more sound simultaneously. Sounds which appear to fit together are consonant and sound
complete or relaxed. Sounds which
do not fit together are dissonant and cause tension and a sense of
incompleteness. Dissonance and
tension are the "spice" of music. The interplay of tension and release can have a major impact
on the music.
Timbre
(Color)
The
unique quality of the sound. This
more than any other element may affect the overall emotional impact or attitude
of the composition
Texture
The
manner in which the melodic and harmonic elements are combined. Is there more than one horizontal
melodic movement happening simultaneously, are different things happening all
at once or is the musical activity mostly focused on one element.
Dynamics
(loud, soft)
Dynamics
are always relative to what follows or precedes much the same as brightness in
color depends largely on what other colors surround it. Dynamic changes may be gradual, or
sudden. Dynamics are generally
used for two primary purposes: for
contrast- to set one section or idea apart from the other
for emotional
impact- for the sake of intensity and drama
Form
(structure, clarity)
The
manner in which the musical elements are organized. Usually determined by repetition of musical material,
restatement of ideas, creating sections, contrast etc. Some pieces are very organized and
sectional, others are not.
Attitude
What
is the overall "feeling" about the piece.
Message
Does
the composer have a message or do you sense a message. What is the music trying to
communicate.