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The Halleujah Chorus from ¡°Messiah, ¡± the Haydn Mass in D Minor, and Schubert¡¯s ¡°The Erlkonig,¡± I believe, are three characteristic pieces from the Baroque, Classical, and 19th Century periods. Tone Colour The Halleujah Chorus and the Haydn Mass do have similarities when coming to their make-up of performing media. The two works each consist of a full SATB ( Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass) Choir, with the addition of vocal soloists. Both works also consist of a full orchestra : ¡¤ Woodwind – oboe, bassoon ¡¤ Brass – trumpet, trombone- (Hallelujah Chorus), horn –(Haydn) ¡¤ Percussion - Timpani, harpsichord –(Hallelujah Chorus) ¡¤ Strings - Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass –(Haydn) The role of the orchestra in these two pieces is alike. The orchestra provides contrast in the absence of vocal melodies, but also unity in stabilising a common theme, and providing equal support in backing up the vocalists. The tone colour of the vocal melodies in these two pieces are both passionate, with spirit. The vocalists, with the orchestra give accented, vibrant melodies, in beautiful harmony. Though the Erlkonig is of a vocal nature, it contrasts to that of the other two pieces. Having its performing media consisting only of piano, and vocal soloist, it completely changes the tone colour of the piece, allowing the piano and vocalist independently dictate the mood of the song. This piece is more of a duet, rather than a piano accompanying a soloist, as there is not only masterful character work being exhibited by the singer, but also astounding virtuoso piano playing. I believe this piece clearly features both piano and singer equally. Structure The structure of the two pieces differ somewhat. The Hallelujah has its main theme, from bar 5, followed by a second theme, beginning at bar 33, then returning to the main theme 18 bars before the end. The Haydn has three contrasting movements, from the mass. Each has a main theme, alternating to a second theme. The ¡°Et Incarnatus¡± begins with the soloist, then the main theme, has a second melody at bar 29.
Approximate Word count = 1356
Approximate Pages = 5.4
(250 words per page double spaced)
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