concerto for Orchestra, 4th mvmt Flashcards
(23 cards)
Why is the title strange? Describe what Bartok meant by it.
A concerto is usually a piece of music written for a solo instrument accompanied by orchestra. Bartok wrote that the title of this symphony-like orchestral work is explained by its tendency to treat the single instrument groups in a ‘concertant” or soloistic manner.
What is the story behind how this song was composed?
Bartok was hospitalized and in very bad condition. Two colleagues who understood the importance of his work petitioned the Koussevitsky Foundation to commision this work. Bartok felt rejuvenated by the project and completed it within seven weeks.
Genre
orchestral work
date of composition
1943
Structure
5 movements
Key
begins in E Lydian and ends in B major with modal inflections
Form
Rondo-like (introduction, A B A1 C B1 A2)
Tempo
Allegretto
Time Signature
changing meter
In Section A, describe the melody that the oboe outlines.
It is folk-like and outlines a tritone.
Describe what unusual rhythmic features can be found in Section A.
syncopation, and time signature changes. The changing meter imparts a lopsided asymmetrical feel to the rhythm.
Which of the following best describes section B?
a) driving, relentless rhythm that builds to a climax on a high C# in the woodwinds
b) strikes an elegiac note with a sweeping lyrical melody in the violas
c) swirling sixteenth note triplets mimic the sound of flowing water, accompanied by shimmering harp
B
True or false: the melody in section B is loosely based on a well-known Hungarian melody
true
when section A returns as section A1, what is the difference?
it is abbreviated, and features increased dissonance
what is the special nickname for section C?
the interruption
Where is the melody borrowed from in section C, and which instrument introduces it? What is the significance of its inclusion?
Clarinet plays a melody borrowed from Dmitri Shostakovich’s Symphony No.7 in C major op.60
The quotation is meant to be a crude musical commentary on the Nazi invasion of Russia in 1942
Describe the harmonic techniques employed in part C
heavy dissonance which is heightened by a brass glissandi,
modal, atonal and polytonal sonorities
What affect does Section B1 have after section C?
it brings back the sweeping melody, repairing the disturbance created by “the interruption”.
The strings create a warmer feeling.
What is the final section in this rondo-esque piece? How does it differ from any earlier repetitions?
it is an A2. It features an extended flute cadenza, and the music forms a gentle close.
In lieu of the title, which instrument groups are featured soloistically?
s
Name three neo-classical elements you can find in this work.
s
Describe what musical effect Bartok achieved with the changing meter.
s
what is the name for movement 4 of this Concerto for Orchestra?
Interrupted Intermezzo
