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key term - Coda

Citation:

Definition

A coda is a concluding passage or section in a musical composition that serves to bring the piece to a close. It often features a distinct musical idea or thematic material that may differ from the main sections, providing a sense of resolution. The coda allows composers to reinforce the overall structure of a work while giving the listener a satisfying ending.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Codas can vary significantly in length and complexity, sometimes being just a few measures or extending over several sections.
  2. In many cases, the coda will revisit themes or motifs from earlier in the piece, creating a sense of familiarity as it leads to closure.
  3. A coda may also introduce new material or ideas that were not previously heard, adding an element of surprise before concluding.
  4. The term 'coda' comes from the Latin word 'cauda,' meaning 'tail,' symbolizing its role as the 'tail end' of a musical piece.
  5. In popular music, codas can be less formally defined but often function similarly by providing an ending that wraps up the song.

Review Questions

  • What role does a coda play in the structure of a musical composition, and how does it relate to other formal sections?
    • A coda serves as a conclusion to a musical composition, reinforcing the overall structure by providing closure. It typically follows the main sections such as exposition, development, and recapitulation. While it might revisit themes from earlier in the piece, it can also introduce new material, helping to solidify the listener's experience and finalize the musical journey.
  • Discuss how the coda can contribute to the emotional impact of a piece and provide an example of this effect.
    • The coda can enhance the emotional impact of a piece by creating a powerful sense of resolution or by introducing unexpected elements that leave a lasting impression. For instance, in Beethoven's 'Symphony No. 5', the coda intensifies the thematic material heard throughout the symphony, leading to an exhilarating conclusion that evokes triumph and closure. This emotional culmination can resonate deeply with listeners.
  • Evaluate how composers might use codas innovatively to challenge traditional expectations in their works.
    • Composers might employ codas in innovative ways by subverting traditional expectations, such as introducing completely new themes that contrast sharply with prior material. For example, Igor Stravinsky's 'The Rite of Spring' employs a coda that defies conventional harmonic resolutions, leaving listeners surprised and unsettled. This creative choice not only challenges traditional forms but also enhances the overall narrative of the music, engaging listeners in unexpected ways.

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