Download WJEC a Level Music

WJEC A Level Music
MU6 APPRAISING – PART 2:
Historical and Analytical Study
SHOSTAKOVICH
SHOSTAKOVICH – String Quartet No. 8
Question One
Candidates are required
to listen to excerpts from
the set work. They are
required to respond fully
to the questions,
applying the knowledge
gained through detailed
study of the set work.
Question Two
Candidates are required to
write an essay which
will focus on the
development of the form
and on a recognition of
the influences which
maintain continuity and
cause change, placing
the set work within a
broader musical
perspective.
Essential Materials:
The score
This is published by
Boosey and Hawkes
Ltd. The quartet is
opus no. 110, and the
miniature score no. is
HPS 729. This will be
available online and
from all good music
shops.
The recording
There are various
recording of this piece
available. The
important thing is that
you have your own
copy!
Preparation for analysis
The string quartet
• File any useful notes from the AS course on chamber music!
• List the names of any composers famous for their string
quartets.
Shostakovich the composer
• Research the man and his music.
• Make useful points about his musical style and list his most
famous works.
Listen to the set work carefully
• Follow the score: as a class, then a few times on your own!
• Discuss: What are your initial thoughts and reactions to this
piece?
Putting the work in context.
Background Information
File carefully your
research, and any
information on the work
and the composer you
may have collected. You
should also read and
save the general
background notes
available in this project.
Completing worksheets
There are worksheets
available to download to
assist with your
understanding of this
information.
The Analysis
MOVEMENT I : Largo
MOVEMENT II : Allegro
MOVEMENT III: Allegretto
MOVEMENT IV: Largo
MOVEMENT V: Largo
The teacher will guide all
students through the
process of analysis.
Follow the suggested
procedure for each
movement in turn.
The provided notes may
be used as a guideline –
additional information
and details may be added
as required for
clarification.
• Follow the score in class while
listening.
• Identify the structure and mark
in the sections in the score.
• Work through the analysis,
annotating the score in as much
detail as possible.
• Use post-it notes to add extra
information in your score if
necessary!
• Complete the worksheets after
each movement has been
completed.
• Discuss the answers in class.