Chalkboard (Jóhann Jóhannsson)

Question 1

Describe the instrumentation. Make five points.

Answer 1

Solo violin plays ethereally in a high range over the top of harp. Shifting, as it drives harmony forward

Harp plays two note oscillating minor third figure. Makes the piece feel as though it isn’t moving onward

Piano has rapid descending triad inversions during the climax. Increases the anticipation

Mainly for string orchestra. Variation in techniques to show the dynamic mind of Stephen Hawking

Solo violin plays tremolo strings during new section in a high range. Develops the tension and suspense

Question 2

Describe the harmony/ tonality. Make four points.

Answer 2

Diatonically minor throughout that has no deviance from key chord. Regarded as driving and adventurous

During the new section of the piece, lower strings preserve harmonies in stasis. Builds the suspense

Chords move chromatically through three minor keys. Shows Stephen Hawking’s longing for new ideas

Piece is left unresolved, as it abruptly ends on chord seven. Leaves listener on a cliffhanger, building the tension

Question 3

Describe the texture. Make three points.

Answer 3

With regards to dynamics, it builds up throughout gradually. Regarded as dramatic sounding and exciting

Parts build up in layers over the duration of the piece, from solo to harp to full string orchestra. Increases interest

Polyphonic towards the end. The appearance of different motifs reflect variation in Stephen Hawking’s ideas

Question 4

Describe the rhythm/ tempo. Make three points.

Answer 4

Lower strings accent chords on the beat, with a tenuto on the fourth. Dramatic as it increases the anticipation

Piano triad inversions come in around beats two and three during climactic moment. Builds on the excitement

New section is slightly faster than the intro, as it is determined to drive onward to the end of the piece