Purcell – Sonata for Trumpet and Strings (1694), 2nd Movement

Question–Answer flashcards reviewing key analytical points of Purcell’s Sonata for Trumpet and Strings, 2nd movement.

Which musical elements create the sense of contrast in the 2nd movement compared with the 1st?

Slower tempo, quieter dynamics, no trumpet, homophonic texture throughout, more complex harmony, rhythmically simpler.

Why does the trumpet remain silent throughout the 2nd movement?

Because frequent key changes would be difficult for a natural trumpet to negotiate.

What overall formal structure best describes the 2nd movement?

Binary form (A A' | B B').

How many bars long are the phrases in the A sections?

4 bars each.

How many bars long are the phrases in the B sections?

5 bars each.

In what key is the first phrase (bars 1-4) of the A section?

B minor.

What general melodic contour characterises the A-section phrases?

A gradual rise and fall, forming an arch shape.

What is unusual about the first chord in bar 3, given the overall key?

It is a tonic major chord (B-major) within a minor key passage.

How is the cadence in bar 4 decorated?

With a violin trill, a 4-3 suspension, and a note of anticipation.

In which key is the A' section (bars 5-8)?

E minor.

What special harmonic device ends the A' phrase?

A Tierce de Picardie (major tonic chord in a minor-key context).

List two clear changes that announce the start of the B section (bar 7/8).

Key change and drop to piano dynamic (also: anacrusis start and new melody).

What melodic device appears in bars 9-10 of the B section?

A descending sequence featuring suspensions.

What type of chord occurs on the first beat of bar 11?

A minor 7th chord (D m7).

What kind of triad is found on the first beat of bar 13?

An augmented triad (C+).

State the successive keys in bars 8-14 of the B section.

Bars 8-9: A major; 9-10: A minor; 11-12: F major; 13-14: A minor (ending on A major).

Which harmonic feature is heard on the down-beat of bar 14?

Another Tierce de Picardie.

How is the B' section (bar 14 to the end) related to the previous material?

It repeats the B section transposed up a perfect 4th and concludes in D major, the home key.