325,155 views
19 votes
19 votes
Explain how Beethoven creates tension at the start of the extract by referring to dynamics, harmony and pitch.

L van Beethoven: 1st movement from piano sonata no.8 in C minor ’Pathétique’

User Nathan Jhaveri
by
2.7k points

1 Answer

8 votes
8 votes

Answer:

At the start of the first movement of Beethoven's piano sonata no. 8 in C minor, also known as the "Pathétique," the composer creates tension through a combination of dynamic, harmonic, and pitch elements.One way Beethoven creates tension is through the use of dynamics. The opening measures of the piece feature a series of forceful, accented chords played fortissimo (very loudly). These loud, dramatic chords contrast with the quieter, more contemplative melody that follows, creating a sense of tension and instability.Beethoven also uses harmony to create tension at the start of the piece. The opening chords are dissonant and unresolved, with a strong sense of dissonance created by the use of a tritone (a musical interval with three whole tones) between the root and the fifth of the chord. This dissonance creates a sense of instability and tension, which is then resolved as the piece progresses.Finally, Beethoven uses pitch to create tension at the start of the piece. The opening melody features wide leaps in pitch, with the right hand playing a series of octave leaps that create a sense of unease and disquiet. The melody also moves between different keys, creating further tension as the music shifts and changes.Overall, Beethoven's use of dynamics, harmony, and pitch at the start of the "Pathétique" creates a sense of tension and instability that drives the piece forward and sets the stage for the drama and emotion that follows.

Step-by-step explanation:

User Matewilk
by
2.9k points