Sophie Ramsey

IB Music
September 7, 2010
Mr. Barricklow
Piano Sonata No. 23 in F minor VS. Russian Sailor Dance

Read the seven abstracts in the Basic Elements of Music Folder (2 on Form, Harmony,
Melody, Rhythm, Texture and Timbre) on the IB Music fusion page. After you have read and
become familiar with the terminology discussed in above abstracts, compare and contrast two
pieces of music you are familiar with (your choice) utilizing the terminology and vocabulary
used in the abstracts.

The two pieces I have chosen are two of my absolute favorite pieces to listen to. I

never tire of them simply because each time I listen, I notice something new. I am able to

unravel another layer of the music. The first piece I have chosen is Piano Sonata No. 23

in F minor by the composer Beethoven, and the second is titled Russian Sailor Dance by

Tchaikovosky.

Both of these pieces have a upbeat tempo, though while Piano Sonata No. 23 in F

minor generally has a consistant and rapid tempo and melodic line, Russian Sailor Dance

tends to vary in temp, and melodic line. Both pieces have a strong motif sectioned

throughout, and both pieces are similar in the sense that the motif is easily identifiable.

Another difference is that the Bass line of Piano Sonata No. 23 in F minor almost

‘grounds’ you while listening to the piece. The music is moving so quickly, and there are

so many notes being employed in the treble clef area, that the bass line hold a solid base

for the music. One last difference is that The first piece is soley Piano, while the second

contains the piccolo, strings, flute, oboe, as well as trumpet, trombone and various

percussion instruments.