Discuss how this piece (Brahms Piano Quintet in F minor mvt. III 'Scherzo') is characteristic of 19th century chamber music.

Brahms' melodic writing is highly virtuosic; large ranges are used for all instruments with double/multiple stopping and pizzicato in the stringed instruments, and occasional lyrical, legato melodies passed between instruments. The tonality and harmonic language of this piece is functional, with F minor as the tonic key, but incorporates plenty of chromaticism for colour such as diminished 7th chords. This piece is structured as a Scherzo followed by a highly melodically contrasting Trio, with an added fugato section. The texture comprises of equal melodic interest for all instruments, as well as homophonic chordal writing in the piano part. Rhythmically, Brahms incorporates plenty of syncopation for an energetic effect, and the dynamics contrast between very strong sforzandos and quieter reflective moments. 

EB

Related Music A Level answers

All answers ▸

How did jazz influence mainstream music in Europe and America? [How to approach and introduce this question]


What is the function of a cadence in western music and what are the different types?


What do the various names for structure mean - Binary, Ternary, Sonata etc?


Referring to melody and harmony, show how Wagner’s Prelude to Tristan und Isolde provides an appropriate introduction to the drama that follows.