Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Michael Nyman - The Heart Asks Pleasure First

This one's from the famous movie "The Piano" with Holly Hunter. Is it New Age? It could be. More importantly, lets' examine what's being done from a "composer's" viewpoint.

Initially, it looks like a lot is going on here. And there is. But wait! What is this piece? It's comprised of a melody supported by chords. No surprise there. The key to understanding this piece is in the melody. Why? Because the focus is on the melody.

Once you get that, all that's necessary is to figure out how the piece was harmonized - what chords were used, what positions the chords are in and when they change.

Questions? Comments? Post them below.

2 comments:

  1. Anonymous11:32 AM

    Brilliant. D.B.

    ReplyDelete
  2. i really love hearing the wonderful sound that comes out from a piano... specially from a Grand Piano...

    ReplyDelete