Teaching Topic Theory
Dance in ¾, slow tempo, with regular phrasing (4+4), it has an elegant and refined character. It is associated with the courtly context and the gallant style.
References: Ratner, 1980; Allanbrook, 1983; Hatten, 2014.
See also: video on the theme of the minuet.
“Sensibility and Empfindsamkeit apply to an intimate, personal style, often sentimental in quality. Classic musical criticism constantly refers to Empfindungen, feelings and sentiments”.
References: Koch, Lexikon, 533; from Ratner, 1980: 22.
Watch the video of Sensitive Style’s Topic and see the Examples.
The style is characterised by a cantabile melody with a lyrical quality, articulated phrasing in long values, and a slow tempo. It is often referred to as the ‘aria style’ due to its intimate character.
References: Ratner, 1980; Agawu, 2009; Day-O’Connell, 2014; Grimalt, 2020.