Song Analysis

Title: Analyse a Substantial Music Work
Credit Amount: 4
Brief Explanation: This assessment involves analysing a significant music work to demonstrate understanding of its style, structure, and musical meaning.

Link to NCEA Booklet

The Students' Task for Assessment:
Students will analyse a substantial music work by explaining its musical elements, features, compositional techniques, and structural devices. The analysis must show an understanding of the style and meaning of the piece.

Grading:

Achieved: Analyse a substantial music work by explaining its elements and features to demonstrate understanding.
Merit: Critically analyse a substantial music work by discussing how its elements, features, and devices contribute to its style and musical meaning.
Excellence: Perceptively analyse a substantial music work by evaluating how the elements, features, and devices are combined to communicate the style and musical meaning effectively.

For this assessment, students will analyse "Merry Go Round of Life," a significant piece of music composed by Joe Hisaishi for Studio Ghibli's animated film Howl's Moving Castle (2004), directed by Hayao Miyazaki.

This piece is one of Hisaishi's most iconic works, known for its enchanting melody and emotional depth. It features lush orchestration, blending classical and romantic styles with a touch of whimsy to reflect the fantastical world of the film. The piece begins with a waltz-like rhythm, evoking the sensation of a carousel ride, and develops into a sweeping, emotive melody that captures the themes of love, adventure, and magic present in the story.

Merry Go Round of Life Audio

Video Analysis

Exemplars

3.7 Level 3 Music Assessment Exemplar 91422.pdf

Exemplar

91422-Exemplar-Low-Excellence.pdf

Student Exemplar

In our lessons, we will break down Merry Go Round of Life into its individual sections to make the analysis more manageable. By focusing on smaller parts of the song, such as the introduction, melody, harmony, rhythm, orchestration, and development, you will be able to understand the unique musical techniques and compositional devices used in each section. This approach will help you make detailed notes and unpack the song step by step, rather than trying to analyse the entire piece at once. As you work through the sections, you will follow specific questions to guide your analysis and demonstrate your understanding of the musical concepts at play. This process will allow you to build a comprehensive analysis, supported by clear evidence from each part of the song.

Lesson One

Lesson 1: Opening 40 Seconds of Merry Go Round of Life

Learning Intention: We are learning

In the opening 40 seconds of Merry Go Round of Life, the music begins with just the piano, creating a simple but effective foundation. The two-part arrangement is made up of chords in the left hand and the main melody or motif in the right hand, which is repeated throughout the piece. The use of extended chords, such as 7ths and 9ths, is typical of jazz music, which gives the piece a rich, complex harmonic texture. These extended chords create a jazzy feel, adding depth to the sound and making the music feel more sophisticated and flowing. By using these extended chords, it allows the harmonies to not sound too much like a Major or Minor chord, as it is mixing notes from both. Which gives it both a light and dissonant tone, which is less distinguishable and more obscure. This plays into the idea of fantasy and whimsy in the music, as the chord structures create that sense of ambiguity.

The repetition of the main melody creates a sense of continuity and reinforces the central theme of the piece, while the contrast between the harmony and melody creates an interesting dynamic, with the chords providing a grounded, stable foundation and the melody soaring above. The rhythm in this section is relatively slow, and the use of rubato allows for some flexibility in timing, giving the performance a more expressive and fluid quality. This combination of harmonic richness and expressive timing sets the tone for the rest of the piece, drawing the listener in with its warmth and emotional depth.

Questions for analysis:

Extended chords sound jazzy because they are both major and minor sounding. How else would you describe these chords in the context of this piece? What type of emotions, or tones are highlighted by using more complex and ambiguous chords?
In what ways does the repetition of the motif throughout the opening section create a sense of continuity and emotional engagement?
Rubato means to play loosely with timing, speeding up and slowing down with a disrguard for a strict tempo. How does Rubato in the piano part influence the expressiveness and feel of the opening section?

Lesson Two

Lesson One: Analysis of 40 seconds to 1:30 – Orchestral Strings and Expanded Theme

In this section of Merry Go Round of Life, we hear the return of the main motif or theme from the opening piano section, but this time, it is presented by a full orchestral string section. This transformation highlights the development of the piece, with the orchestration and texture evolving to reflect a sense of progression and movement.

Tempo and Energy

The tempo in this section increases slightly, which introduces a sense of forward momentum. This change in tempo signals to the listener that a new idea or section is emerging in the piece. The faster pace gives the song more energy, driving it forward and setting the tone for a shift in mood, making the listener feel that something new is unfolding.

Orchestration and Texture

The orchestration shifts from the piano solo in the first section to a rich string section, which adds depth and complexity. The strings are divided across various parts, with the lower strings playing a triplet staccato (short, detached) pattern. Two contrasting playing style are accentuated in this section, the short and bouncy chord notes playing in the lower strings and the legato(Long) melody line played on violin.

Harmony and Chord Structure

In this section, the harmony continues to use extended chords, blending major and minor sounds in an obscure manner. This unusual combination creates a sense of tension and intrigue, making the music feel both joyful and slightly uncertain at the same time. This adds emotional depth to the piece and encourages the listener to feel a sense of anticipation for what will come next.

Main Theme Repetition and Development

The main theme is repeated twice, first by the violin section playing the melody in a more traditional manner. In the second repetition, however, the theme is played across two octaves, with violins playing the theme in the higher octave. The Viola's (Similar to a violin but lower pitched) double the same part as the violin. This variation creates a more dramatic effect, as the higher register gives the theme an expanded, grander feel. The repetition of the theme in a different register enhances the emotional quality of the piece and builds on the listener’s connection with the main melody.

By using these techniques—tempo change, orchestration shift, complex harmony, and thematic development—the section from 40 seconds to 1:30 minutes contributes significantly to the piece's overall sense of growth and emotional resonance. The transformation from piano to full orchestra, combined with the evolving use of dynamics and harmony, helps the listener feel as if the piece is expanding, gaining in emotional depth and grandeur.

Questions for Analysis:

How does the increase in tempo from the first section to this part affect the overall energy of the piece?

What is the significance of the triplet staccato rhythm played by the lower string sections, and how does it influence the mood of the piece?

How does the use of a higher octave in the second repetition of the main theme enhance the emotional quality and grandeur of the piece?

Lesson Three

Lesson Three: Analysis of 1:40 to 2:30 – Transition and Return of the Main Theme

This section of Merry Go Round of Life seamlessly moves from a delicate transition into a grand restatement of the main theme. It highlights the composer’s use of intricate orchestration, thematic development, and subtle compositional devices to create a sense of movement, whimsy, and emotional resonance.

The transition section (1:40–2:00) introduces a new melody on the piano, accompanied by the metallic, bell-like tones of the glockenspiel. This combination adds a magical, sparkling quality to the texture. The violin complements this by playing counter-melodies—short, decorative phrases that fill the spaces between the piano lines. These counter-melodies are not the main focus but serve to add complexity and motion, keeping the listener engaged. One particularly striking feature is the use of descending string runs, where rapid sequences of notes played by the strings descend in pitch. This technique creates an ethereal and whimsical effect, evoking a sense of floating or daydreaming.

The main theme returns in the second part of this section (2:00–2:30), but with an expanded orchestration that enhances its emotional impact. The piano and strings come together, playing in harmony to create a richer and fuller texture. This use of orchestral doubling, where multiple instruments play the same melody or harmonies, makes the theme sound grander and more powerful. The busy, layered interaction between the instruments adds a sense of energy and progression, suggesting that the piece is building towards a climax. The repetition of the theme with this denser arrangement symbolises growth and adds a triumphant, celebratory quality to the music.

Questions for Analysis:

What role do the counter-melodies played by the violin have, and how do they enhance this section?
How do the descending string runs contribute to the magical atmosphere of this section?
What is the effect of orchestral doubling in the return of the main theme? When the piano and strings both play the main melody part together?
How does the build in instrumentation reflect the emotional progression of the piece?

Lesson Four

Lesson Two: Analysis of 2:30 to 2:57 – Return of the Main Theme and Rhythmic Transformation

This section of Merry Go Round of Life reintroduces the main piano melody, echoing the simplicity and charm of the opening section while incorporating new orchestral elements to heighten its emotional and dynamic impact. The interplay between the piano, strings, and percussion in this section highlights the composer's skill in balancing subtlety with energy, creating a transition that feels both reflective and forward-moving.

The first part of this section (2:30–2:43) brings back the main piano melody, now accompanied by string swells. A swell is a compositional device where the dynamics, volume, and tension of the music build gradually, like a wave, before receding. These swells enhance the emotional intensity of the melody, creating a sense of anticipation and drama. The strings act as a supportive foundation, enriching the piano’s melody and adding depth and texture to the soundscape. This interplay gives the section a sense of nostalgia and warmth, while the dynamic movement of the swells keeps the listener engaged.

In the second part of this section (2:43–2:57), the tempo increases, and the piano adopts a lively, bouncing rhythm. This shift contrasts with the rubato rhythm of the earlier, freer-flowing sections, creating a sense of urgency and movement. The transition to a more consistent tempo marks a clear progression in the music, as if propelling the piece into a more energetic phase. The strings continue their interplay with the piano, offering counter-melodies—short, decorative phrases that weave in and out of the main melody. Notably, the strings momentarily take over the main theme, demonstrating how the melody is shared between instruments to maintain variety and interest.

Another key addition in this section is the introduction of a tambourine, which provides a rhythmic pulse and emphasises the pacing of the music. The tambourine’s bright, percussive sound contrasts with the smooth tones of the piano and strings, adding another layer of texture to the arrangement. This rhythmic element underscores the liveliness of the bouncing piano lead and strengthens the forward momentum of the music.

Questions for Analysis:

How do the string swells enhance the emotional and dynamic qualities of the main piano melody?
What effect does the increase in tempo have on the mood and energy of this section?
How do the counter-melodies from the strings contribute to the overall texture of the music?
Why might the composer choose to have the strings temporarily take over the main theme from the piano?
What role does the tambourine play in this section, and how does it affect the listener’s perception of rhythm and pacing?

Lesson Five

Lesson Five: Analysis of 3:20 to 3:47 – Contrasts in Tempo and Layered String Arrangement

In this section of Merry Go Round of Life, the tempo slows again, offering a reflective contrast to the lively and rhythmic section preceding it. The interplay between the piano and cello takes centre stage, sharing the main melody in a manner that creates a warm and expressive foundation. This shift in tempo and texture highlights the emotional depth of the piece while also introducing complex string layering that enriches the arrangement.

The first part of this section (3:20–3:35) is characterised by the piano and cello working together to present the melody. The piano plays with a delicate yet steady rhythm, while the cello’s deep, resonant tone adds a sense of richness and weight to the melodic line. This slower tempo creates a more contemplative atmosphere, allowing the listener to focus on the interplay between the two instruments and their complementary timbres.

As the section progresses, the violas are introduced, adding two distinct layers that enhance the texture. The first viola part plays an ostinato, which is a short, repetitive rhythmic phrase. This ostinato, performed in the higher register, creates a sharp and energetic counterbalance to the smooth and flowing melody of the piano and cello. It acts as a rhythmic anchor, subtly driving the music forward while also contributing tension to the arrangement.

Simultaneously, the second viola part introduces a low counter-melody. Counter-melodies are separate melodic lines that weave around the main melody, adding complexity and variation to the music. This lower viola line complements the cello and piano, filling out the harmonic space and creating a sense of balance between the high and low ranges. Together, these viola parts expand the instrumentation and create dynamic tension, adding layers of movement and interest to the section.

The section concludes (3:35–3:47) with a return to the main melody, played by both the piano and strings in unison. This unison playing provides a sense of resolution and cohesion, grounding the music after the complexity introduced by the violas. Descending string runs, similar to those heard in earlier sections, reappear here. These quick, falling phrases add a whimsical quality and maintain the light, floating character of the piece, even in its slower moments.

Questions for Analysis:

How does the slower tempo in this section change the mood and feel of the piece?
What role does the cello play in complementing the piano’s melody, and how does their interplay affect the texture?
How does the high ostinato viola part contribute to the tension and pacing of the music?
What is the effect of layering both a high ostinato and a low counter-melody in the violas?
Why might the composer choose to return to the main melody at the end of this section, and how does it impact the listener's experience?

Lesson Six

Lesson Four: Analysis of the Final Section (3:47 to End) – Climactic Resolution and Ternary Form

The final section of Merry Go Round of Life brings the piece full circle, showcasing the ternary structure (A-B-A) that defines its overall form. In this structure, the return to the main theme from the opening section (the A section) creates a sense of familiarity and cohesion, while the introduction of new ideas within this framework ensures the music remains fresh and engaging.

Return of the Main Theme and Ternary Structure

At the start of this section, the piano and strings take turns presenting the main theme melody, reminiscent of the piece's opening. This return to the familiar theme reinforces the ternary structure, giving the composition a balanced and satisfying symmetry. However, while the melody remains the same, the arrangement has grown significantly in complexity, with additional layers of instrumentation and heightened energy that prepare the listener for a climactic resolution.

Building Intensity Through Counter-Melody and Arpeggios

The section becomes increasingly lively and intricate as the piano and violins alternate between playing the main melody and embellishing it with counter-melodies. These counter-melodies frequently feature 8th-note arpeggios—fast, flowing sequences of ascending or descending pitches. These arpeggios create a sense of constant motion and soaring energy, enhancing the excitement and dynamism of the final moments. The interplay between melody and counter-melody adds texture and a feeling of grandeur, making this the busiest and most exhilarating part of the arrangement.

Unison Playing and Moments of Emphasis

To bring clarity and focus amid the bustling counterpoint, moments of unison playing (when multiple instruments play the same melodic line) provide powerful emphasis. These unison lines stand out as climactic moments in the music, cutting through the intricate textures to deliver an impactful, unified sound. One such moment is the final build-up, where all instruments come together to create a dramatic crescendo leading to the final chord. This unified conclusion ties the entire piece together, leaving a lasting impression of grandeur and resolution.

Key Features of the Final Section:

Ternary Structure: The return to the main theme reflects the piece's symmetrical A-B-A form, providing a sense of closure.
Counter-Melodies and Arpeggios: The interplay between fast arpeggios and the main melody enhances the sense of motion and excitement.
Unison Playing: Strategic moments of unison create emphasis and clarity, cutting through the busy texture to mark key moments of resolution.
Final Build-Up: The climactic crescendo and final chord bring the piece to an exciting and satisfying conclusion.

Questions for Analysis:

How does the return to the main theme reflect the ternary structure of the piece?
What is the effect of the 8th-note arpeggios on the overall energy and motion of the final section?
How do moments of unison playing contribute to the sense of emphasis and resolution?
How does the combination of melody, counter-melody, and orchestration create a climactic and satisfying conclusion?

Musical Concepts:
The piece Merry-Go-Round of Life employs a wide range of sophisticated musical concepts and compositional techniques to evoke its enchanting and emotional atmosphere. Below is an explanation of these concepts, written in British English, with specific references to how they are employed in the music.

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1. Waltz Rhythm

Definition: A rhythm in a 3/4 time signature, where each bar consists of three beats with a strong emphasis on the first beat. This creates a natural lilt, often associated with dance and circular motion.
How it’s used: The consistent 3/4 rhythm in Merry-Go-Round of Life establishes a flowing, dance-like quality reminiscent of the movement of a merry-go-round.
How this is used in the piece: From the opening (0:00), the bass notes in the lower strings and piano highlight the strong first beat, while the lighter second and third beats provide a delicate accompaniment. This rhythmic underpinning contributes to the whimsical and nostalgic tone of the music.

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2. Orchestration

Definition: Orchestration refers to the art of assigning musical lines and textures to different instruments in an ensemble, using their unique sounds to enhance the character of the piece. This means that the composer carefully chooses which instruments play particular parts to create a variety of textures and moods.

Strings

How they’re used: The strings carry the primary melody, providing warmth and lyricism. Their soaring, legato phrases add a romantic and emotional quality.
Specific example: At 0:15, the violins introduce the main theme with a smooth and expressive sound. Later (1:50), the cellos and basses provide a rich harmonic foundation while the violins take on embellishments, enhancing the dynamic shifts.

Percussion

How it’s used: The percussion subtly underscores the rhythm and provides dramatic accents. Instruments like the harp and cymbals add colour and sparkle.
Specific example: The harp glissandos at 0:12 create a magical introduction, while cymbal crashes at 2:10 punctuate the climactic moments, heightening the drama.

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3. Leitmotif

Definition: A leitmotif is a recurring musical theme associated with a specific character, idea, or emotion. This means the composer uses it to unify the music and evoke particular feelings.
How it’s used: The central melody in Merry-Go-Round of Life acts as a leitmotif, representing themes of love, nostalgia, and cyclical motion.
How this is used in the piece: This melody appears in various forms throughout the piece. For example, it is introduced delicately by the strings at 0:15, but returns triumphantly with the full orchestra at 1:50, showcasing its versatility and emotional power.

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4. Modulation (Key change)

Definition: Modulation is the process of changing the key within a piece of music, often to introduce contrast or shift the emotional tone.
How it’s used: Merry-Go-Round of Life frequently modulates between major and minor keys to reflect the bittersweet nature of the music.
How this is used in the piece: At 1:30, the music transitions from a major key to a minor key, creating a more introspective and melancholic tone. This is followed by a return to the major key at 1:50, providing a sense of resolution and optimism.

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5. Dynamics

Definition: Dynamics refer to the variations in volume, from soft (piano) to loud (forte). These changes add emotional contrast and shape the music.
How it’s used: The dynamics in Merry-Go-Round of Life range from gentle, intimate passages to powerful, climactic moments.
How this is used in the piece: The piece begins softly (piano) at 0:00, creating an intimate and magical introduction. By 2:00, the music swells to a forte (loud), adding drama and grandeur. This dynamic range helps convey the emotional journey of the piece.

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6. Melodic Contour

Definition: Melodic contour refers to the shape of a melody as it rises and falls in pitch. This means the melody’s direction can convey motion or emotion.
How it’s used: The sweeping arcs of the main melody create a sense of romanticism and forward motion.
How this is used in the piece: At 0:15, the melody rises in an ascending phrase before gently falling. This wave-like motion mirrors the circular motion of a merry-go-round and evokes a sense of longing.

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7. Harmonic Progression

Definition: A harmonic progression is a sequence of chords that supports the melody and gives the music a sense of movement and resolution.
How it’s used: The harmonic progression in Merry-Go-Round of Life alternates between tension and resolution, creating emotional contrasts.
How this is used in the piece: At 1:20, a series of minor chords build tension before resolving to a major chord at 1:50, creating a sense of triumph and emotional release.

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8. Counterpoint

Definition: Counterpoint involves combining two or more independent melodies that harmonise with one another, creating a rich and complex texture.
How it’s used: The interplay between the strings and woodwinds adds layers of interest and depth.
How this is used in the piece: Around 2:30, the violins carry the main melody while the flute and clarinet introduce a counter-melody. This creates a lively, intricate texture, highlighting the energy and movement of the piece.

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9. Ternary Form

Definition: Ternary form is a musical structure with three sections: the first and third are the same (A), and the second (B) contrasts with them. This creates a balanced structure.
How it’s used: The piece follows an A-B-A form, with the main theme returning after a contrasting middle section.
How this is used in the piece: The opening waltz theme (A) reappears after the darker, more reflective middle section (B), creating a sense of closure and symmetry.

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10. Tempo Rubato

Definition: Tempo rubato means “stolen time” and refers to slight fluctuations in tempo for expressive purposes. This means the performer can speed up or slow down slightly to enhance the emotional phrasing of the music.
How it’s used: The tempo subtly shifts throughout the piece to highlight emotional moments.
How this is used in the piece: At 1:45, the tempo slows during a quieter, introspective passage before returning to its original speed for the triumphant reprise of the theme at 2:00. This ebb and flow mirrors the emotional highs and lows of the piece.

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