Performance Notes

Originally for full symphonic orchestra; this arrangement is for string orchestra (Violin I, Violin II, Viola, Cello, Contrabass)

Primary theme: A scalar theme in G minor.

Secondary theme: A syncopated theme in Bb major.

Tertiary theme: A tension-building theme created from a repeated 2-bar motif coupled with a variation of Primary theme material.

Idée Fixe: Solo violin theme in m. 165. This theme represents the ‘love theme’ that recurs in other movements of Symphonie Fantastique.

Hooked bowing

Dotted rhythms

Scalar runs

Crescendo/Decrescendo

Subito contrast

Subdivision (sextuplets)

Nonmetric accents

Pizzicato

Solos (balance)

Offbeats

Staccatto

Tremolo

Modal modulation

Divisi

Non-divisi chords

Main Key: of G minor

Modulates to: Bb major

Ends in: B major

Form

Introduction → Primary theme → Secondary theme → Tertiary theme → Secondary theme → Tertiary theme → Development → Coda

Group Problem Spots

Primary theme intonation (octave jump)
m. 47-48 (Non-divisi chords)
m. 61 (Scalar run pitch accuracy & saving the bow)
Hooked dotted quarter - sixteenth rhythmic motif. Challenging to not turn this into triplets by accident.
Offbeats (Secondary theme)
Sextuplet subdivision (first seen in m. 79)
m. 82-89 and 109-114 (Quick arco-pizz exchanges)
m. 113 (triplets)
m. 152 (chromaticism)
m. 161 (triplets)
m. 171-end (intonation, power, quick rolled chords; may want to divisi)