How to identify MT composers Flashcards
(5 cards)
Richard Rodgers
He’s recognised with the “golden age” of musical theatre.
He composed from 20’s-70’s.
His musicals include Oklahoma!, Carousel and Sound Of Music, all classics.
He often follows American Song Form, AABA 32 bar form.
His melodies are usually singable and memorable. They’re natural and feel perfectly placed.
Often orchestrated with lush strings and woodwind, very rich. Occasional jazz combo or nightclub band
Poetic lyrics.
Leonard Bernstein
His musicals include West Side Story, Candide (an operetta). He also has symphonies.
He composed from 40’s-80’s
Many different influences used.
Frequent metre changes and syncopation.
Angular melodies and tritones.
Sforzando and a harsh timbre.
Individual instrument focuses (loads of brass and jazz), creating frequent dissonance.
Stephen Sondheim
Some of his most famous works include Sweeney Todd, Into The Woods and Follies.
He composed from 70’s-80’s.
His lyrics often sound like natural speech in rhythm. There’s irregular phrasing, fast patter, conversations set to music and rapid articulation.
There’s irregular phrasing lyrics are clever and layered, with loads of wordplay and irony.
The harmony harmonies and melodies are unusual, and often lack resolution. Intervals unexpected, it feels fragmented and harmonically complex.
Philosophical reflecting sometimes.
Stephen Schwartz
Some of his most famous works include Wicked, Prince of Egypt and Pippin.
He composed from 70’s - now.
He uses rock, pop, folk and gospel confluences. These include catchy choruses, repetitive hooks, and guitar/piano driven arrangements.
The tone is often spiritual and uplifting.
The lyrics are modern and sincere, with metaphors.
Often emotional climax, starting quietly and small then finishing with strong chords and large.
The harmony is smooth and flowing, with chord progressions modern.
Claude Michel Schonberg
Some of his most famous works include Les Miserbales, Miss Saigon and Martin Guerre.
He composed from 70’s - 00’s.
His music is epic and has emotional storytelling. His musicals are usually sung though, so a main part of plot will be conveyed whilst singing.
The Melodie’s are large, soaring and sweeping. Also long notes.
The orchestration is rich, cinematic and dramatic. Feels like a film score.
Lyrics are simple and direct.
