Suggestions and Questions for Analysis

Read the title of the piece.

Oftentimes, simply the title of the piece can tell you a lot about what to expect in your analysis.

Perform the Music:

Use whatever means are available: piano, other instruments, voices, MIDI, etc.

Determine the basic key (scale, mode, tonal centre) of the work.

Point out the principle elements that define the tonality. Things to look for (besides key signatures and incipit/ultimate chords) include cadence points, pedal tones, third-relationships and ostinato figures. 20^th-century music: For twelve tone music, the row and matrix must be established before any further tonal analysis can be completed. In atonal music, watch for contrived scales, polytonality, dual modality and pandiatonicism.

Examine the rhythmic structure.

Perform each voice by clapping or tapping the rhythms. Comment on the rhythmic patterns. Then combine voices rhythmically. What observations can be made about rhythmic drive? cadences? climaxes?

Discuss the relationships between the voices.

Motivic, rhythmic and directional relationships are very important in the cohesiveness of the work.

Outline the formal structure.

Entries, episodes, key relationships (cadences), recurring sections, and other structural elements.

Study the contrapuntal techniques.

Discuss the use of compositional devices such as imitation, invertible counterpoint, sequence, etc.

Analyze the harmony.

Identify the root and quality of each chordal unit, using Roman numerals and figured bass symbols, indicate the harmonic function of each chord, circle and name all nonharmonic tones, locate and explain all modulations.

Discuss other significant aspects which lead to an intelligent musical performance.

Rhythm and tempo, high points, change of texture, stylistic considerations and text.

Compare works of similar form.

Motivic material, rhythmic figures, modulations, compositional devices and texture.

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