Discuss how this piece (Brahms Piano Quintet in F minor mvt. III 'Scherzo') is characteristic of 19th century chamber music.

Brahms' melodic writing is highly virtuosic; large ranges are used for all instruments with double/multiple stopping and pizzicato in the stringed instruments, and occasional lyrical, legato melodies passed between instruments. The tonality and harmonic language of this piece is functional, with F minor as the tonic key, but incorporates plenty of chromaticism for colour such as diminished 7th chords. This piece is structured as a Scherzo followed by a highly melodically contrasting Trio, with an added fugato section. The texture comprises of equal melodic interest for all instruments, as well as homophonic chordal writing in the piano part. Rhythmically, Brahms incorporates plenty of syncopation for an energetic effect, and the dynamics contrast between very strong sforzandos and quieter reflective moments. 

EB
Answered by Emily B. Music tutor

3435 Views

See similar Music A Level tutors

Related Music A Level answers

All answers ▸

How can we know the speed of a musical piece?


Refer to pieces from the New Anthology of Music and/or elsewhere, to explain how other pieces of music have influenced you in your composition


Describe the use of harmony and tonality to express a non-musical subject in Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons. Use detailed examples from at the movement 'Spring', whilst making comparisons with other movements.


What system did Bach use to compose his Prelude in C Major?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning