Write a paragraph describing the character of the contrasting episodes, using specific musical terminology and time stamps to support your statements. Talking about, How does the character of the fourth movement compare with the first three? Consider such factors as tempo, texture, rhythmic character, and melodic themes.

Question

How does the piano concerto compare with Johann Sebastian Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 in D Major, BWV 1050? What similarities and contrasts do you see between these two works of the same genre? The following questions will help you compare them.

What instrument is featured as soloist in Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 5?
How did the role of the keyboard instrument change from the time of Bach to Brahms? (Hint: Was the soloist in Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto usual or unusual?)
Where is the cadenza in the opening movement of Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 5? Where is the cadenza in the opening movement of Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2?
Which composer’s work featured a larger orchestra? How does this reflect the style period?

And write like a fourth grader

Answer 1

In the fourth movement of Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2, the character changes to a more lively and energetic mood compared to the first three movements. The tempo is faster, the texture is more complex with the addition of new melodic motifs, and the rhythmic character is more dynamic. For example, at 10:32 the orchestra introduces a new rhythmic theme that contrasts with the previous movements. In contrast, Johann Sebastian Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 in D Major has a more delicate and intricate character. The solo instrument featured in Bach’s concerto is the harpsichord, which was unusual at the time. In Brahms’ concerto, the piano is the solo instrument, representing a shift in the role of the keyboard instrument from Bach’s time to Brahms’ time. The cadenza in Bach’s concerto is located towards the end of the movement, while in Brahms’ concerto it is located towards the beginning. Bach’s concerto features a smaller ensemble, while Brahms’ concerto features a larger orchestra, reflecting the stylistic differences between the Baroque and Romantic periods.