Top answers

How do I go about comparing two pieces of music in an analytical essay?

In order to structure a comparative essay at this level it is best to break the pieces down, and compare and contrast them in terms of their melody, rhythm, harmony, instrumentation, texture and structure (u...
LC
Answered by Luke C. • Music tutor
47055 Views

How do I write an essay comparing two different pieces of music?

Firstly try to find any similiarities that there are - do they have the same instrumentation? Or do they both come from a similar style - are they both dances, for example? Discuss these first, and don't for...
JB
Answered by Jessica B. • Music tutor
18677 Views

What is word painting?

Word painting is a technique used to literally depict or 'paint' the image of the lyrics in the music. For example loud dynamics could paint lyrics displaying anger or acending scales could represent 'going ...
CG
Answered by Catriona G. • Music tutor
23900 Views

Describe the expressive devices used in Dido's lament 'When I am laid in earth' that portray a character facing death.

Melody: No vocal ornamentation - despair Use of monotone - emphasise words 'remember me' - the melody in this section is also fragmented - shows they are struggling to continue living Unequal and inconsisten...
JB
Answered by Jodie B. • Music tutor
5502 Views

How can we know the speed of a musical piece?

Normally, the tempo (that is how speed is called in music) is given at the beginning of the piece, mainly in Italian. For example: Presto (very fast), Allegro (fast), Lento (slow).
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Answered by Pablo A. • Music tutor
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