Music A-Level
Thematic contrast
What Thematic contrast means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Thematic contrast
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Reference: AQA
The alternation of a lyrical F major Andantino with a stormy A minor Presto con fuoco, developing them through varied repetition and increasing technical demands.
Topics that use Thematic contrast
- Area of study 1: Western classical tradition 1650–1910 (compulsory) - Strand C: The piano music of Chopin, Brahms and Grieg (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Edition-specific performance practice
- Evolution of piano texture
- Expressive chromaticism
- Expressive harmony and chromaticism
- Folk music influences
- Harmonic innovation
- Mediant key relationship
- Melodic ornamentation and cantabile style
Using Thematic contrast in the exam
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