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Briefly explain and describe the performance practice (setting, composition, role of composer/performer, and audience) of the 20th-century music, focusing on impressionism and expressionism.

User Qmeeus
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Final answer:

In the 20th century, impressionism and expressionism revolutionized performance practice in music. Impressionist music focused on capturing light and scenes of modern life, while expressionist music aimed to convey intense emotions. Composers played a crucial role in both genres, and performers were responsible for interpreting and conveying the intended atmosphere or emotional states.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the 20th century, performance practice in music underwent significant changes, particularly in the genres of impressionism and expressionism.

Impressionism: Impressionist music aimed to depict the transience of light and capture scenes of modern life and nature. Composers utilized techniques such as suggestive harmonies, colorful orchestration, and fluid rhythms to create a dreamlike and atmospheric quality in their compositions. The setting of impressionist music was often in concert halls.

Expressionism: Expressionist music emerged as an avant-garde style before World War I. It aimed to convey intense emotions and inner turmoil through dissonant harmonies, exaggerated dynamics, and unconventional tonal structures. The setting of expressionist music was diverse, including concerts, theaters, and films.

The role of the composer in both impressionism and expressionism was crucial. Composers in these genres were seen as innovators and visionaries, breaking away from traditional musical practices. They actively planned and composed their works to evoke specific moods and emotions.

The role of the performer in impressionism was to interpret and bring out the intended atmosphere of the piece through their playing. Performers in expressionism were expected to convey the extreme emotional states and avant-garde techniques of the compositions.

The audience for both impressionism and expressionism was varied. In impressionism, the audience mainly consisted of concert-goers who appreciated innovative and evocative music. In expressionism, the audience was exposed to intense and unsettling experiences, challenging traditional notions of beauty and harmony.

User Maxfowler
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