Discussion Board 5 – The Romantic Area
Please choose one of the following questions to answer.
If you will be responding after June 1, please answer question #2
1. “Grane, mien Ross!” (Grane, My Horse!) and finale to Die Gotterdammerung (The Twilight of the Gods) from The ring of the Nibelung Opera – Richard Wagner
German Romantic opera is much larger and more grand than Italian or French Opera. Describe the orchestra and the singing in this section of Wagner’s opera. Does the music fit with the events being described? Which type of opera do you prefer – Wagnerian (German) or Italian/French (such as that from Aida). Explain why you prefer one over the other. After you post your introduction, read and respond to the posts of at least two other classmates.
2. Nocturne, op. 9 no. 2 Solo Piano – Chopin (Featured Listening p 178)
When you listen to this piece, what does it make you think of and how does it make you feel? What do you think “Nocturne” means? Is that an appropriate title for this piece? The piano uses rubato throughout – what effect does that have on the performance? Do you think the use of rubato enhances the performance, or would you rather hear a steady beat throughout the piece? After you post your answer, read and respond to the posts of at least two other classmates.
