AoS1: Musical Forms and Devices
Overview
Develop understanding of music within its broader historical context. This topic will cover the Western Classical Tradition to gain greater knowledge of the typical features of baroque, classical and romantic music. Analysis will relate to the musical elements with particular focus on the structural forms and devices.
Example Key Words
Structure
The order of the sections in a piece of music e.g. Binary (AB) or Ternary (ABA)
Devices
A technique or idea used by the composer to create a particular effect
Baroque
A style of music from 1600-1750. Typical features of baroque include the use of a harpsichord and a basso continuo
Classical
A style of music from 1750-1810. Typical features of classical music include increased size of the orchestra and alberti bass
Romantic
A style of music from 1810-1910. Typical features of romantic music include expansion of the brass section and more lyrical melodies
Orchestra
A large group of musicians who play together on a variety of string, woodwind, brass and percussion instruments, led by a conductor