Choose a famous piece of music from the Classical, Romantic, or Impressionist era. Imagine that this piece is being used as the soundtrack for a modern film or television show. Describe the scene or sequence in which the music would be featured, explaining how the music’s mood, tempo, and instrumentation contribute to the overall atmosphere and narrative of the scene. Note much of what is considered classical on modern radio is NOT (Bach for example is Baroque, not classical and therefore not included in this assignment).
For example: If you choose Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata,” you might imagine it playing softly during a poignant, emotional scene in a drama.
Your homework should:
Clearly identify the musical piece you have chosen.
Analyze the key musical elements of the piece, such as melody, harmony, rhythm, and form.
Describe the scene or sequence you envision for the music.
Explain how the music’s emotional impact and aesthetic qualities enhance the storytelling.
Possible Musical Pieces for Inspiration:
Classical:
Mozart: Symphony No. 40, Eine Kleine nachtmusik, Overture of marriage of Figaro, Queen of the Night Aria, Piano Concerto # 21 (any other work)
Haydn: Surprise Symphony, Water Music, Hallelujah Chorus (any other work)
Beethoven: Fifth Symphony, Ninth Symphony (Ode to Joy), Fur Elise, Moonlight Sonata (any other work)
Any works by Salieri, Martines (Marianna), Stamitz, Grieg
Romantic:
Chopin: Nocturnes, Minute Waltz, Funeral March (any other work)
Liszt: Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 (any other work)
Wagner: Prelude to Tristan and Isolde, Wedding March, Ride of the Valkyries (any other work)
Tchaikovsky: 1812 Overture (any other work)
Or any of these composers and their works – Schumann (husband or wife), Mendelssohn (husband or wife), Berlioz, Schubert, Dvorak, Sibelius, Strauss, Rachmaninoff, Brahms, Saint-Saens, Massenet, Puccini, Verdi, Donizetti, Rossini
Analysis of Key Musical Elements: Chopin’s Nocturne in E-flat Major is a quintessential Romantic piece, characterized by its expressive melody, rich harmonies, and delicate rubato. The music evokes a sense of longing, nostalgia, and introspection. The slow tempo and gentle rocking rhythm create a soothing and meditative atmosphere. The use of chromaticism and expressive dynamics adds depth and emotional intensity to the piece.
Scene Envisioned:
I envision this Nocturne as the background music for a poignant scene in a historical drama. The scene could take place in a dimly lit, ornate chamber, where a character is reflecting on a lost love or a tragic event. The character might be sitting alone, lost in thought, perhaps gazing out a window at a moonlit night. The soft, dreamy quality of the music would perfectly capture the character’s emotional state.
How the Music Enhances the Scene:
By carefully selecting and placing this musical piece, the filmmaker could create a powerful and emotionally impactful scene that resonates with the audience. The Nocturne’s timeless beauty and expressive power would elevate the scene and enhance the overall narrative.