Development of Bolero Dance - Essay Example

Structurally, the bolero is an all mediums straightforward composition. It composes of the C major, ¾ times beginning in pianissimo, and a continuously rising crescendo to possible fortissimo (Asada and Ohgushi, 242). Rhythm is built over the unchanging ostinato rhythm. It is played through one or more snare drums inconsistency throughout the musical piece. Further rhythm is created by the created two melodies each of 18 bars duration, and they are each played two times at alternating moves. The first melody is of a diatonic mode and descends through one octave while the second is of a Phrygian mode and descends through two octaves. Moreover, there is a maintained constant re-orchestration of the theme culminating in steady crescendo and varieties of timbers both of which repeat over and over; a series of 8 and 9 times for the second and the first theme respectively. The major C with a minor key complementary refrain repeats over and over, consistent with the insistent beat of a side drum.

The dynamics of the Bolero starts remarkably quiet and gradually increases as the mood gradually increases in tension for over 15 minutes (Stevens, 2001). The speed of tonation and movement is fairly moderate throughout the music. This is attributed to the use of repeated same melodies but played on different instruments, and more instruments are added as it proceeds to a dramatic climax. The color scheme hugely varies; burying the available tonal center and it goes a considerable time before closing an arc and returning to the primary color.

Phrasing in the bolero is neither definable as asymmetrical nor symmetrical in that it changes over and over in sudden lapses. It constitutes of the same form that recurs over and over, but with no distinct formula. Some parts are symmetrical while others are just asymmetrically mixed.

The bolero is one of the oldest music pieces ever composed. Given its analysis, I would categorize it as a technical exercise of composition. This is because there is the continual repetition of the same material over and over; using a different mix of instruments without any considerable development of the same while it keeps getting louder to a dramatic climax. It is a delightful combination of instruments thus creating various color effects and rhythm. The highlight of this piece for me is within the 6th minute where there is a crazy combination of the celesta, the French horn, and 2 piccolos creating a supremely unique color effect.