[Continued listening extract audio not available in printed QP] Music (continued) Study the table describing two sections from a Romantic orchestral work. S...

(a) Contrast in mood between Section A and Section B, using table evidence [2]

Section A is dramatic, powerful and energetic [1]. The table supports this through several features: the tempo marking is Allegro con fuoco (fast, with fire), the dynamics are fortissimo throughout, the texture is the full orchestra playing homophonically, and the melody consists of short, rhythmic motifs in the brass. All of these elements combine to create an intense, driving character.

Section B is calm, tender and lyrical [1]. The table supports this through contrasting features: the tempo marking is Adagio espressivo (slow, expressively), the dynamics begin at pianissimo with only a gradual crescendo, the texture thins to a solo cello with harp accompaniment, and the melody consists of long, lyrical phrases with wide intervals. These features create an intimate, emotional character.

Each mark requires reference to specific evidence from the table, not just a general description of mood.

(b) How the change in texture contributes to the contrast [1]

Section A uses the full orchestra playing together in a homophonic texture, where all instruments move in the same rhythm. This creates a massive, powerful wall of sound. Section B reduces to just a solo cello with harp accompaniment, stripping the texture down to two instruments. This creates an intimate, delicate character - the single cello line sounds vulnerable and personal against the sparse harp support, which is the opposite of the overwhelming orchestral force in Section A. The dramatic reduction in the number of instruments performing is one of the most effective ways to create contrast in Romantic orchestral music.