Question

Listen to Antonin Dvorak’s Song to the Moon performed by Renee Fleming and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.

1. Does the melody repeat?
(A) Yes
(B) No
2. What form (12 bar blues, concerto, sonata, other) do you think this piece is in?
(A) 12 bar blues
(B) Concerto
(C) Sonata
(D) Other
Once completed, write a brief paragraph describing what you learned by practicing active listening and answer the following questions:
- What surprised you when filling out the active listening checklist?
- How did the active listening checklist help you understand the music better?
- Which musical element did you most enjoy listening for?

Answer 1

Antonín Dvorák's "Song to the Moon" features a repeating melody and is an aria from an opera, 'Rusalka.' Active listening can be enhanced by using a checklist to engage with various musical elements, with many finding the interplay between vocal and orchestral parts particularly enjoyable.

Step-by-step explanation:

Antonín Dvorák's "Song to the Moon," as performed by Renée Fleming and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, is indeed known for having a melody that repeats. This repetition is common in many vocal pieces where the structure supports the lyrics through recurring musical themes. The form of the piece is neither a 12 bar blues, a concerto, nor a sonata. Instead, it is an aria from an opera, specifically from Dvorák's opera 'Rusalka.' Therefore, the correct answer to question 2 is (D) Other.

When practicing active listening, one might be surprised by the depth of engagement required to fully appreciate the complexities of the music. An active listening checklist can enhance this engagement by providing focal points such as melody, harmony, rhythm, and the interplay between the soloist and orchestra. By following such a checklist, one might gain a deeper appreciation and understanding for each individual element and how they contribute to the overall effect of the performance.

The musical element that one might enjoy listening for could vary, but many would find the interplay between the vocal line and the lush orchestration particularly enjoyable. This interplay highlights the emotional nuances of the music and can deeply affect the listening experience.