6: Register (Part 3)

Thinking in Music

Element # 2: Register (high and low)

Episode 2.3 in a series on the fundamentals of music.

00:00:00 - Summary of relevant points in Register Part 2

00:02:45 - Further remarks on Beethoven and the importance of register insensitivity, it's role in 'preserving' melody.

00:07:58 - Extramusical effects/suggestions vs. changes of character from one octave to another - Beethoven's subtle mix of register sensitivity/insensitivity - phrase proportion gives way to fragmentary moment through register development - Classical style altering to the Romantic style through this.

00:16:30 - The connection of memory and singablilty (the condensed/register insensitive octave of the mind)

00:20:12 - What makes something a melody? How is it distinguished from everything else?

00:23:40 The octave barrier

00:36:45 The 'Romantic' 19th century and the middle class - the virtuoso - abuse of register.

00:47:40 The challenge of good instrumental writing.

00:49:29 An expert use of the octave barrier.

00:58:02 Register's usefulness in musical humor, wit, and slapstick (register-sensitive)

01:00:25 The modern symphonic orchestra.

01:02:46 Full circle: Verdi, melody, Bernard Shaw, and Otello. The change of style between Verdi's earlier operas involves cultural attitudes to melody (register insensitivity) and more register-sensitive effects Verdi employs in later operas.