Firstly it must be said that it was most intriguing to learn that the young person’s guide to orchestra has successfully introduced hundreds of thousands of children to classical music. In saying so, from carefully listening to each variation individually and carefully I have seemingly noticed that the Woodwinds (Variations 1-4) specifically Variation 4 had the quietest approach. The variation consisted of Bassoons punctuated by strings, had it not been for the stringed accompaniment, I believe that it would be rather difficult for the depth-sounded bassoon to make a large impact. However when alongside the other accompaniments, it is a lovely combination and addition to the orchestration.
The knowledge from my previous reading assignments has been reinforced by this piece by means of the unique commentation in between each variation towards the full dissection of the specific and particular instruments being played. It was fascinating to see and hear how each individual sector plays a strong part and brings its own uniqueness to the overall piece. I enjoyed the common drastic “slow to fast” alteration subjugated upon each individual variation and as a whole.
My favourite variation was the Strings: Variation 9: harp, accompanied by gong and cymbal. Firstly, I enjoyed how this particular variation started off real quiet and slow and then picked up to ultimately include all of the instruments for brass and percussion concluding section making it whole. Furthermore, I absolutely love the sound of the harp as it brings me back to the middle ages with its unique medieval-like robust sound that is hauntingly beautiful to witness.
References:
Agutter, Jenny/nsotd5. “Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra.” Online video clip. Youtube. Oct 15, 2011. Web. March 1, 2016
Part 1: http://youtu.be/OaGltkHps5U
Agutter, Jenny/nsotd5. “Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra.” Online video clip. Youtube. Oct 15, 2011. Web. March 1, 2016
Part 2: http://youtu.be/bVPHsNUgreU
