9 Questions
What is the key of the motif when it returns fully at b228?
G major
What is the chord played by each section at the beginning of the statement of the motif?
diminished seventh chord
Which instruments enter with the opening motif at b240?
lower instruments (bassoons, horns, cellos and basses)
What is the key signature of the section starting at b151?
The section starting at b151 is in G minor.
What is the harmonic function of the double basses in this section?
The double basses are outlining a series of perfect cadences.
At what point in the section does Beethoven reuse the diminished seventh chord from the transition, and how is it different?
Beethoven reuses the diminished seventh chord at b177, but at a louder dynamic and with a higher bass. The G flat from the original chord appears as an F sharp.
What is the interval between the opening motif in the clarinets and the strings at b125, and how does it contribute to the development of the section?
The interval is a descending minor second (semitone), which helps to move the music towards the subdominant key of F minor.
How does Beethoven use chromaticism in this section, and what effect does it have on the overall sound of the music?
Beethoven uses chromaticism in the ascending line played by the horns, violas and cellos at b143-144, which creates tension and momentum as it leads back to the tonic key of C minor.
What is the significance of the violas and cellos playing a dominant pedal throughout much of this passage, and how does it contribute to the structure of the music?
The dominant pedal played by the violas and cellos helps to establish the dominant key of G, which is then used to modulate back to the tonic key of C minor. It also provides a sense of stability and continuity throughout the section.
Study Notes
Motif Analysis
- The motif returns fully at b228, marking a significant point in the music.
Instrumentation and Harmony
- At the beginning of the motif statement, each section plays a specific chord.
- At b240, the instruments that enter with the opening motif are [ specify instruments ].
Key Signature and Harmony
- The key signature of the section starting at b151 is [ specify key signature ].
- The harmonic function of the double basses in this section is [ specify harmonic function ].
Chord Progression
- Beethoven reuses the diminished seventh chord from the transition at [ specify point in the section ].
- The reused chord is different from its previous appearance in that [ specify difference ].
Interval and Timbre
- The interval between the opening motif in the clarinets and the strings at b125 is [ specify interval ].
- This interval contributes to the development of the section by [ specify contribution ].
Chromaticism
- Beethoven uses chromaticism in this section through [ specify techniques ].
- The effect of chromaticism on the overall sound of the music is [ specify effect ].
Counterpoint and Structure
- The violas and cellos play a dominant pedal throughout much of this passage.
- This dominant pedal contributes to the structure of the music by [ specify contribution ].
"Test your Symphony Knowledge: Identify the Main Motif in Beethoven's Symphony No. 5" - Take this quiz and challenge yourself to recognize the powerful opening motif of Beethoven's iconic Symphony No. 5. From the clarinets and strings in octaves to the repeated notes and unique rhythm, this motif sets the tone for the entire symphony. Put your musical ear to the test and see how well you know this classical masterpiece.
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