Classical Period Part III

Classical Period Part III

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5.4 Theme and Variation

• Theme and variation is a form in which a basic musical idea (the theme) is repeated over and over and is changed each time in melody, rhythm, harmony, dynamics, or tone color.

• Widely used in the classical period

• Used either as an independent piece or as one movement of a larger work

• Sometimes the main melody is accompanied by a countermelody (a second melodic idea)

Example:

FRANZ JOSEPH HAYDN,

Symphony No. 94 in G Major

(The Surprise Symphony)

Second Movement: Andante

Theme and variations, duple meter, C Major

2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 bassoons, 2 French horns, 2 trumpets, timpani, 1st violins, 2nd violins, violas, cellos, double basses

5.5 Minuet and Trio

• A minuet and trio is a compositional form--derived from dance--in three parts: minuet (A), trio (B), minuet (A)

• Often used as the third movement of classical symphonies, string quartets, and other works

• Triple meter

• Moderate tempo

• Meant for listening, not dancing

Minuet and Trio Structure

Minuet (A)

Broken into three sections -

a (repeated) --> b a' (repeated)

Trio (B)

Broken into three sections -

c (repeated) --> d c' (repeated)

Minuet (A)

Broken into three sections -

a b a' (no repeats)

Example:

WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART, Eine Kleine Nachtmusik (A Little Night Music)

Third Movement: Minuet (Allegretto)

A B A form, triple meter, G major

Chamber ensemble: 1st violins, 2nd violins, violas, cellos, double basses

5.6 Rondo

Rondo Form

• Rondo is a compositional form that features a main theme (A) that returns several times in alternation with other themes

• A B A C A

• A B A C A B A

• This form is often used as the final movement in classical symphonies, string quartets, and sonatas.

Sonata-Rondo Form

• The sonata-rondo form combines the repeating theme of rondo form with a development section similar to that in sonata form.

• A B A --- Development --- ABA

Example:

LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, Bagatelle No. 25 in A minor (Für Elise)

Poco moto (with a little motion)

Rondo form: A B A C A

Piano

Example:

LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, String Quartet in C Minor, Op. 18, No. 4

Fourth Movement: Rondo (Allegro)

String quartet: 1st violin, 2nd violin, viola, cello