In this studio class, we will be exploring phrasing and breathing through movement, using Schubert's song, An die Musik.

To do

• Read the text and familiarize yourself with the word-for-word translation in the IPA resource. (McGill login required)
• Sing through the song once. Scores with keys for high, medium, and low voice and provided here.
• Listen to these two interpretations. Both feature the same pianist, Gerald Moore. (Fischer-Dieskau (196?) and de los Angeles (1957))

Things to consider

• Note when each singer breathes. Would you have breathed in the same places?
• Does the pianist change his pulse to accommodate the breath or lift of the singer, or does he seem to keep the tempo constant?
• The score is marked in cut time (2/2). Are there any moments in the recordings where you feel the pulse switch into common time (4/4)?

To bring to studio class

• For studio class, wear a pair of socks that you won't mind getting a bit dirty. I will suggest walking without shoes.

Bonus questions

• Do you notice any differences in the piano interludes between each recording?
• What does Moore's piano solo recording (1967) reveal about his own interpretation?