danny elfman bvtc structure

Question 1

What is the initial tempo marking in the opening section?

Answer 1

♩= 66

The initial tempo sets the pace for the opening of the piece.

Question 2

Which motif is first introduced in the brass during the opening section?

Answer 2

Batman motif

This motif is significant in representing the character of Batman.

Question 3

What chord does Bruce Wayne stand in front of at bar 7?

Answer 3

C♯ major

This chord marks a pivotal moment in the music as Bruce Wayne sees the Bat signal.

Question 4

What is the tempo marking for the second section?

Answer 4

♩= 104

This tempo reflects the comical chaos of the ‘Circus Gang’.

Question 5

What musical techniques are used in the second section to represent chaos?

Answer 5

• Cross-rhythms
• Frequent changes in time signatures
• Syncopation
• Fragments of ideas

These techniques create a sense of disorder fitting the circus theme.

Question 6

What is the key change at bar 18?

Answer 6

C minor

This unprepared modulation enhances the dynamic contrast in the music.

Question 7

What motif is introduced at bar 13?

Answer 7

Circus motif

This motif is represented by an ‘Om pah’ ostinato played by trombones.

Question 8

What harmonic element does Elfman use at bar 34?

Answer 8

Diminished seventh

This represents the chaos being caused by the gang.

Question 9

What time signature changes occur in bars 22-25?

Answer 9

Changes from 4 to 2 to 3 and back to 4

This reflects the unpredictable nature of the music.

Question 10

What new musical feature appears in bar 55?

Answer 10

Descending four-note phrase

This phrase is played in the left hand of the piano.

Question 11

What key does the music return to in bars 56-66?

Answer 11

B minor

The Batman motif is reintroduced in this section.

Question 12

What rhythmic feature is present in bar 60?

Answer 12

Cross-rhythms with quavers triplets against two semiquavers and quaver

This adds complexity to the rhythmic structure.

Question 13

In bars 67-end, what key does the music change to?

Answer 13

E minor

This key change contributes to the overall tension in the music.

Question 14

What unique rhythmic concept is employed in bars 67–77?

Answer 14

Cross-time signature idea

This creates a feeling of instability despite being written in triple time.

Question 15

What happens in bar 70 in terms of instrumentation?

Answer 15

Low instruments play a diminished seventh descending arpeggio

This adds to the chaotic atmosphere.

Question 16

What does the music do in bars 89–90?

Answer 16

Contains a full orchestral version of the ‘Om-pah’ ostinato

This reinforces the circus motif with various orchestral colors.

Question 17

What dynamic change occurs in bars 91–93?

Answer 17

Sudden shift to p (from ff) with a quick crescendo back to forte

This dynamic contrast adds drama to the piece.

Question 18

What is the final note of the piece?

Answer 18

Low E

The piece ends on this note with no harmony played.