In step 6 of this unit (C6), we concentrated on how to describe objects or animals. We started to realise that the song Am Meer by Schubert meant something much deeper than just the sea itself. Those words reminded the poet and the composer of a much more poignant emotion.
The terrible last words in the poem are ‘You have poisoned me with your tears’.
Wagner composes leitmotifs to depict ideals, hope, Spring and a number of other more abstract concepts.
Compose an opening of 4-6 bars to describe deep maybe excruciating emotions such as love, homesickness, terror or deep hatred. You may choose your instruments and combinations.
Really think about your choice and use of the musical elements, that could include:
Remember too that these are the typical and necessary components if you are to create music in the style of the Romantic period.
Complete your composition giving special attention to extended harmonies and bold and daring orchestration to create an unique atmosphere. Your composition could then be developed by changing the themes gradually and using some musical ideas as leitmotifs.