VPMA99H3 Chapter 20: Chapter 20 Study Guide
Document Summary
Brahms follows classic masters to compose his work. Wagner and liszt develop new genres like music drama and symphonic poem respectively. Dichotomy between absolute and program music, tradition and innovation. Technology and scientific knowledge has influence people"s mind. They looked forward and are optimistic about innovation and novelty. Despite the innovative attitude, old musical styles, like that of bach and mozart are conserved in this period. Model piano style after virtuoso, adding stunning effect. Adapt chopin"s lyricism of melodic line and rubato. Slow moving melody is played in rapid broken-chord figuration. Pedal makes this possible by sustaining harmonies when the two hands play leaps over each other to play the floating pentatonic tune. The piece makes it look like the pianist needs 3 hands. Left hand plays bottom staff, right hand play middle, and the top is played by whichever hand is free at the time. Romantic sensibility include lyrical beauty and sincere expressivity.