Summary of "Grade 10 Music Q1 Ep2: Expressionism"

In this episode of "Grade 10 Music," Teacher Jen explores the concept of Expressionism in music, contrasting it with Impressionism.

Key Artistic Techniques and Concepts:

Impressionism vs. Expressionism:
- Impressionism focuses on nature and atmosphere, while Expressionism reacts against this, emphasizing emotional expression and psychological experiences.
Characteristics of Expressionist Music:
- Dissonance: Use of unstable sounds that create tension, often difficult to identify a tonal center (atonality).
- Dynamics: Extreme contrasts in loudness (from pianissimo to fortissimo).
- Texture: Frequent changes in texture throughout a piece.
- Melody: Distorted melodies that reflect the composer’s feelings rather than being pleasing to the listener.
Historical Context:
- Expressionism emerged before and between the two World Wars in response to widespread anxiety and emotional turmoil.

Arnold Schoenberg:
- Developed the 12-tone system to ensure all notes of the chromatic scale are treated equally.
- Notable works include "Piano Lunaire," "Three Pieces for Piano," and "Violin Concerto."
Igor Stravinsky:
- Known for rhythmic inventiveness and his work "The Firebird Suite."
- Composed a wide range of music, including ballets, operas, and orchestral pieces.