Hello again. This time we’ve got another symphony, it’s quite a long one but an absolute favourite and worth sticking around until the end!

BRONZE

1. Can you spot the tune that happens in all four movements of the symphony?

2. Write 5 different sentences to describe the very end of the piece.

3. Why do you think that there are so many players for each of the string instruments (Violin, viola, cello, double bass), but a much smaller number for woodwind, brass and percussion (bassoon, oboe, clarinet, trumpet, horn, drums etc)?

4. Do the highest sounding instruments always have the tune?

5. Write a short story that you think this symphony could be telling.

SILVER

1. Pick 3 texturally interesting moments and write a paragraph about each, and the way that the instrument chooses different roles for different instruments.

2. How does the recurring ‘motto’ theme change as the symphony progresses?

3. Draw a mood graph for the symphony. Along the bottom is time or the different sections of each movement, with the top of the Y axis as extreme happiness, and the bottom of the Y axis as extreme sadness.

4. How far do you agree that the third movement is the least important?

5. The symphony is in E minor, but what key does it finish in? (Hint: this may be more simple than you think)

GOLD

1. To what extent do you agree that this symphony is a symphony of extremes only?

2. Try to map out the structure of the first movement, considering the various themes that occur. Label each theme with a letter, and put a dash next to each variation of that theme.

3. Find 3 examples of moments in which Tchaikovsky tightens the screw of tension, and then releases it. Write a detailed paragraph for each about the ways in which he achieves this.

4. Have a go at composing your own short piece for any number of instruments which achieves the same as in question 3.

5. ‘Without rubato, this piece would be boring’ - how far do you agree?