Smetana Ma Vlast (Vltava)

How does the texture in 'The Vltava' represent the river?

With interlocking and overlapping flute melodies.

What year was this composed?

1879

What is the influence of Bach and the Romantic period on the texture of 'The Moldau'?

Polyphony within an otherwise homophonic texture.

What is tonal centre is suggested in the opening melody in 'The Moldau'?

E Aeolian.

What is the scale degree of the melody at the beginning of 'The Moldau'?

1-5.

What is the influence of folk music on the harmony of 'The Moldau'?

Partly modal with b6 and b7.

What is the key change in 'The Moldau'?

To the relative major.

What is the harmony accompanying the melody like in 'The Moldau'?

It is diatonic, triadic chords that juxtapose the modal inflections within the melody

What is the harmony like in 'The Moldau'?

Diatonic - triad almost throughout with occasional 7th and diminished 7th chords.

How does this compare to other romantic symphonies such as the Faust symphony?

It is much simpler in terms of harmony and orchestration

What is the form of 'The Moldau'?

Tone poem.

What is the subject matter of 'The Moldau'?

The Moldau river weaving through the Czech countryside and Smetana's patriotism towards his homeland.

What is the significance of the use of wind instruments in 'The Moldau'?

Increased use of wind instruments during the period.

What is the significance of the use of Czech folk techniques in 'The Moldau'?

Displays extra-musical content such as narratives and emotions.

What is the significance of the modal inflections in 'The Moldau'?

It is influenced by Czech folk music.

Who was Smetana popular with?

Bohemian audience

What musical techniques did Smetana use to make this programmatic?

Oscillating semiquavers in flutes to represent rivers