Fundamentals of Music Theory and Historical Instruments
Simple and Compound Time Signatures
In simple time signatures, the numerator (the number of beats) is 2, 3, or 4 if the meter is binary, ternary, or quaternary, respectively. In compound time signatures, the numerator is 6, 9, or 12 if the meter is binary, ternary, or quaternary.
Syncopation and Anacrusis (Upbeat)
A *syncope* (syncopation) occurs when a note begins on a weak beat or off-beat and is sustained across the following strong beat. When a note does not match the pulse and is preceded by a
Read MoreKey Characteristics of Classical, Baroque, and Romantic Music
Classical Period: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Listening Notes: Mozart’s music often features bright final cadences, conveying positive energy that sometimes stops abruptly.
Sonata (Solo Instrument)
This form typically features only one instrument. The melody is clear and supported by chords, defining the typical Classic texture. Key features include:
- Perfect balance between expressiveness and clarity.
- Tunes end in a final cadence that clearly defines the structure.
Concerto for French Horn (Solo Concerto)
Read MoreBaroque and Classical Music Periods: Instruments, Forms, and Composers
The Baroque Period (c. 1600–1750)
What Does the Adjective “Baroque” Mean?
The word *baroque* originally meant “irregularly shaped.” At first, the word in French was used mostly to refer to pearls. Eventually, it came to describe an extravagant style of art characterized by curving lines, *gilt*, and ornamentation.
Musical Instruments of the Baroque Era
What is a Luthier?
A luthier is a person who builds, adjusts, or repairs stringed and plucked string instruments.
Who Were the Most Famous Luthiers?
The Art and Symbolism of Peking Opera Performance
The Symbolic Language of Peking Opera Facial Makeup
Fans of Peking Opera are familiar with its deep cultural connotations. Theatre-goers recognize the unique language conveyed through the colors, patterns, and historical background of the facial makeup. The ethics, wisdom, and philosophy of traditional Chinese culture are reflected in the makeup, indicating the specific character or role the actor is portraying.
The colors and patterns reveal whether a character is good or evil, loyal or wicked, as
Read MoreRomanticism: Music, Dance, and Social Context (1820-1910)
The Romantic Era (1820–1910)
Romanticism developed in Europe between 1820 and 1910. This movement was promoted by the bourgeoisie, who had gained power, and reacted against the ideas of the Enlightenment and Neoclassical art.
Core Tenets of Romanticism
The Romantic period defended:
- Individuality
- Subjectivity
- Creative Freedom
Social Context and Consequences
Key Philosophies
- Liberalism: A political and moral philosophy that defends civil liberties against monarchical despotism.
- Nationalism: A movement defending
Theatrical Forms and Production in Spanish Baroque Drama
Drama Types in Baroque Theater
In the Baroque theater, two types of drama were represented: those of a serious nature and those of a comic character.
Long-Form Plays
Serious: tragicomedy and mystery plays.
Comic: swashbuckling comedies, comedies of “big shots,” palatine plays, and burlesque comedies.
Short-Form Pieces (Interludes)
Short pieces appeared interspersed within the representation of extensive works.
Entremeses (Hors d’oeuvres)
Humorous works of a single act. The predominant action often involved