This writing assignment is intended to build upon the skills you are developing in class. It requires that you discuss two recorded pieces composed between the years 1000 and 1980s (operas, symphonies, songs, etc). Read about the composers and the music performed. Try to find historical information concerning the two pieces.
You can choose any composer and piece that you like!!! Read about the composers and the music performed. Try to find historical information concerning the two pieces. If you cite other sources, you must include the name of the author, title (article, book, etc), and page numbers (any citation format is acceptable, ex. MLA, Chicago, Turabian, etc).
Review the music.
Express your feelings and critique about the pieces
Requirements
2-3 Pages
12 Point font
Double Spaced
Introduction
(1 paragraph): Your introduction should include the composers and titles of the two pieces you have chosen, where you found/listened to these pieces (cd, radio, tv, Youtube, live performance, etc). You should also include as much information as possible about the musicians/ensembles/conductors, venues (if applicable).
Description
(2-3 paragraphs): The main body of the review should include a discussion of each piece. You are going to consider and write your own observations about some of the following elements (bold sections are very important and should be included in your paper):
Melody – the tune of the music
Harmony – the individual chords as well as the overall chord progression
Rhythm – the beat and groove of the song
Form / Song structure– the different sections in the song (ex. ABA, ABCA, etc)
Instruments-which instruments (piano, guitar, violins, etc) are used?
Sound – the sonic qualities of the arrangement
You are then going to use and answer some the followings questions in the description paragraphs (you do not have to answer all of them, but the (bold sections are very important and should be included in your paper):
Overall, what do you notice? What do you like or dislike?
Why are any of the above-mentioned elements important for you?
What kind of meaning they convey and how?
How is each of the elements used in the song?
Are any of these elements repeated in the song?
What is the cultural/social context of the song (protest, political, social issues, religious, etc)?
How do the lyrics express and emphasize the cultural message?
Are there any particular words or sounds that stick out to you?
How is the balance in the sound? Is there an instrument that’s intentionally louder than another? How does that affect the perception of the song?
Evaluation
(1-2 paragraphs): What about the listening experience was new or different for you? Try to use some of the terms discussed in lectures.
Conclusion
(1 paragraph): Your conclusion should summarize your overall impression of the compositions. Do not include any new information in the conclusion.
