In this 1500-word paper, you must answer the following question:
‘‘How is rhythm used in the control of tension and repose?’’
The purposes of this assignment are to provide you with an early opportunity to check your understanding of the role of a major musical element in
generating tension, and to allow you to write descriiptively and analytically about music to which you have listened. Providing that you submit Assignment 1
on schedule, there is ample time for feedback before the next, more complex, assignment. Assignment 1 also allows your tutor to make a preliminary
assessment of your writing and thinking skills. That assessment will enable him or her to assist you in your later assignments.
Assignment 1 should be written as a short essay that cites print and audio sources. Consult ‘‘Tips on Essay Writing’’ in the course manual (link on top section
of main course page) for guidance on how to construct the paper. You can also visit the AU Write Site. Use only the Funes textbook and its associated
recordings; this assignment is not a research paper. When complete, submit your paper to your tutor for marking and comments.
the funes textbook mentioned is Funes, Donald J Musical involvement, a guide to perceptive listening second edition.…
Sample Solution
Rhythm is used in the control of tension and repose by creating a sense of balance within a piece. Through specific use of rhythm, composers can create moments of anticipation or resolution. By using contrasting rhythms, such as fast and slow or regular and irregular patterns, they are able to draw attention to certain points in the music while inducing feelings of tension or relaxation. For instance, a composer may choose to use an irregular rhythmic pattern for a section with intense emotion but then switch to regular rhythms for contrast and repose. Ultimately, it is up to the composer how they wish to manipulate the listener’s emotions through the use of rhythm.