Last modified on August 4, 2023
For our first analysis symposium, we will focus on a classic piece by Anton Webern, his Variations for Piano, Op. 27.
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hZXpDGQ-0M[/embedyt]Download the score from the readings folder.
Everyone
- Listen to the recording with the score several times. This is an extremely short work so it will not take you long.
- Perform a row analysis of the piece: make a matrix (it’s okay to use an online matrix generator), and find and label the row forms present in the piece. Show a 12-count of each pitch in the row. So that we are all consistent, please base your matrix on P3 as given here:
[3, 11, 10, 2, 1, 0, 6, 4, 7, 5, 9, 8]
Bring this analysis with you to class on Wednesday so that you can participate fully indiscussion.
Non-presenters
Add a comment to this page with one original question for the presenters to answer. Note: your comments are public!
Presenters only
For either movement 1 or 3 (as assigned below), prepare a 5–10 minute presentation on some aspect of the piece.
| mvt 1 | mvt 3 |
|---|---|
| Alex | Mary |
| Jacob | David |
| Crystal | TJ |
| Evan |
Content
You must incorporate set theory and/or serialism. You may also include the broadly applicable techniques from Unit 1.
Some thoughts to inspire you:
- What sets are governing this piece?
- Where are the phrases? The sections? How can you tell what is a phrase/section opening and what is a phrase/section close?
- How does the form compare/contrast with traditional tonal forms?
Style
- Have some kind of visual aid ready to demonstrate your main point(s). You can project papers (e.g., an annotated score) using the document camera.
- Bring an extra copy of your visual for me to keep, or scan and email it to me.
- I expect this to be informal, but you should still have your thoughts collected. Know what your main points are, and drive them home.
- 5–10 minute presentations go by quickly! Do not ramble! I will cut you off if I have to.
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