How would I go about writing an analytical essay about a musical setwork to gain maximum marks?

The best way to go about answering analysis questions is with a clear structure in your head of all the features you want to explore. The THIRST4Music template below should ensure you cover all bases with regards to analysis, however depending on the essay question, some additional contextual information might be appropriate to include as an introduction. Tonality- what tonal regions are explored by the composer? Do the keys relate to each other? Harmony- what harmonic features are there? Are cadences a significant feature? Can you spot any non-chord notes/dissonances? Instrumentation- are the instruments written for typical of the period? Are there any interesting techniques adopted by the instruments/voices? What are the ranges of the instruments/voices? Rhythm- are they are interesting or reoccurring rhythmic features? Do hemiolas, cross rhythms, triplets or dotted rhythms feature? What is the metre? Does it change during the piece? Structure- how has the composer chosen to organise the piece? Is a periodic structure used? Are there repetitions? Texture- how is the piece layered to create different weights at different points in the pieces? Are there thinner and thicker sections of music? Do dynamics contribute to this effect? 4 Melody-how does the melody contribute to the overall feel of the piece? Is it mostly ascending or descending/ disjunct or conjunct? Is there a lyrical melody or is it more static? Does any melodic decoration or ornamentation occur.