Black Hair (Toru Takemitsu)

Question 1

Describe the instrumentation. Make four points.

Answer 1

Double bass plays a D pedal note during the opening bars. Regarded as sinister sounding

Upper strings playing tremolo strings in intro. Increases and extends horror of the Hiroshima bombing

Cello plays a solo that moves in a stepwise motion. Produces emotional content for the listener

For string orchestra alone. Variation in techniques to show the grief of the Hiroshima bombing aftermath

Question 2

Describe the harmony/ tonality. Make five points.

Answer 2

Very atonal in the intro, with dissonant chords often appearing in the upper strings. Reflects the horror

First chord in upper strings is loosely based around F diminished seventh. Creates a flustering mood

Transitions from its atonal state in intro to a minor key before cello’s solo. Mournful feel, as it reflects aftermath

The chords accompanying cello’s solo is loosely based around one, five and six. Regarded as sensitive

Piece ends on an easy D major chord. Contrasts with atonality heard in the introduction before aftermath motif

Question 3

Describe the texture. Make three points.

Answer 3

Swelling dynamics as upper strings play a cluster chord in the intro. Unsettles the emotions of the listener

Builds from lowest to highest pitched instrument in a stepwise motion before cello’s solo. Struggles for freedom

Switches between monophonic and homophonic during cello’s solo. Bleak, as it lacks hope and justice

Question 4

Describe the rhythm/ tempo. Make three points.

Answer 4

Ambiguous, as it is constantly being augmented and diminished slightly. Invents a dark atmosphere

Ambiguous, but is quite slow during the opening bars. Slowly builds up and plays with emotions of the listener

Note F mostly played in lower strings to keep the main tune in stasis. Regarded as intense and expressive