The concerto through time: Romantic edition

Key Question What are the key features of the Romantic concerto? Consider Instruments Pitch and melody Dynamics Texture Structure

Key features of the Romantic concerto: Structure: Movements and works became much longer than in previous eras Modulations were made to distantly related keys Pitch and melody Melodies became longer Cadences at the ends of phrases weren’t as clear Instruments Much larger orchestras Woodwind and brass became much more prominent Texture Dramatic contrasts in textures Melodies would often be doubled (two instruments playing the same thing) Dynamics and expression: A conductor was required for directing rubato and more extreme changes in dynamics

Listening task: notation You will hear the extract four times Extract (play to 1:43)

Answers 2. Rising arpeggios, quaver movement 3. Accept two: The overall dynamic is piano The strings play con sordino The melody is legato The tempo is slow 4. Accept two: The melody is being played by a solo woodwind instrument The harmonies and melody contain chromaticism There is some rubato There are crescendos and diminuendos within phrases

Listening task: Long answer You may be asked to compare extracts or write in more detail about an extract in prose, in which the quality of your written communication will be marked. Tips: READ THE QUESTION CAREFULLY Structure your answer so that you mention one element in Extract A and then the SAME element in Extract B Reference what you know about the music of the era as well Extract A (0:50) Extract B (1:04)

Answers Extract A Extract B Written in the Classical period 5-6 marks: A good range of musical features are identified regarding the use of the soloist and orchestra in both extracts. This shows evidence of a good level of comparative understanding. The response is expressed clearly, using appropriate terminology with accurate spelling, punctuation, and grammar. 3–4 marks: Several points are made regarding the use of the soloist and orchestra in both extracts which attempt to make some comparison(s) between them. The response shows some organisation and structure but may contain some errors of spelling, punctuation, and grammar. 1–2 marks: A limited number of points are made regarding the use of the soloist and orchestra from at least one of the extracts. The response lacks organisation, structure and accuracy of spelling, punctuation and grammar. 0 marks: No response or no response worthy of credit. Extract A Extract B Written in the Classical period Melody and accompaniment Solo and tutti sections alternate at the beginning The violin opens the movement The 1st violins play the melody in the tutti sections The orchestra plays a simple accompaniment when accompanying the solo violin The accompaniment in itself is quite homophonic Written in the romantic period The orchestra opens this extract The woodwind instruments play excerpts of the melody The violin's opening is virtuosic including double-stopping Pizzicato Unaccompanied Cadenza-like The orchestra accompaniment is quite homophonic (chords in the strings)