COMPOSER SABRINA PENA YOUNG | MUSIC TECHNOLOGY | FILM | CLASSICAL | OPERA

Composer Tips - What are Program Notes in Classical Music?  I have had a couple of questions regarding program notes. Here are a few helpful hints and examples: Program notes can describe what is happening musically in a work (Ex. "The trumpet in Movement 1 conveys a militaristic feeling of war.") Program notes can explain the composer's intention (Ex. " Stravinsky wished to convey the rites of passage through primal rhythm.") Program notes can quote nonmusical references, like a poem or biblical text. (Ex. Movement 1 symbolizes, "And let there be light.") Program notes can give lyrics. (Ex. "I look in the mirror, and who do I see? Hollowed eyes, looking back at me.") Program notes can give historical information. (Ex. "Originally composed in honor of Napoleon , Beethoven's Symphony #3 eventually came to recognize any hero, and not just Bonaparte." Program notes for 20th century concerts can be more experimental. (...