Movement 2: Un Ball - Musical Analysis

Waltz Form and Rhythm

The movement is written in ternary form (ABA) and set in 3/8 time, mimicking the rhythm of a waltz.

Dance-like Qualities:

• The lilting rhythm and sweeping melodic lines evoke the swirling motion of a Romantic ballroom dance.
• Syncopation and off-beat accents add lightness and grace.

Melodic Writing

Main Theme (A Section):

• Played by the strings, the theme is flowing and lyrical, with a graceful contour that suits the waltz style.
• Repeated phrases and ornamentation add elegance and charm.

Idée Fixe:

• It appears briefly in the B section, played by the clarinet.
• The idée fixe interrupts the dance, symbolising the protagonist's obsessive longing for his beloved.
• Its dreamy, legato phrasing contrasts with the playful waltz theme.

Harmony and Tonality

Key: Primarily in A major, reflecting the cheerful and light-hearted mood of the dance.

Modulations:

• The B section explores related keys, creating contrast and hinting at underlying tension.
• Harmonic shifts support the narrative, particularly during the idée fixe.

Orchestration

Strings:

• The violins carry the main waltz theme, providing a shimmering and elegant sound.
• Lower strings create a steady, rhythmic foundation, enhancing the dance-like quality.

Harp:

• Arpeggios introduce the movement and add a sparkling, ethereal texture throughout.

Woodwinds:

• Clarinet introduces the idée fixe, creating a lyrical and intimate moment.
• Flute and oboe contribute playful flourishes, adding lightness to the texture.

Percussion:

Minimal, maintaining the refinement of the ballroom setting.

Dynamics and Texture

Dynamic Contrasts:

• Subtle crescendos and decrescendos mimic the ebb and flow of a waltz.
• The dynamic range highlights moments of joy and introspection.

Texture:

• It is predominantly homophonic, with the melody clearly supported by the accompaniment.
• Changes in instrumentation create variety and sustain interest.

Programmatic Elements

• The movement captures the elegance and excitement of a Romantic ball but includes a touch of melancholy through the idée fixe, reflecting the protagonist's inner turmoil.
• Berlioz uses the dance form to provide a moment of respite in the symphony's overall dramatic narrative, while still weaving in the obsessive love theme.

Key Analytical Insights

• Un Ball is a masterful combination of programmatic storytelling and musical elegance.
• The contrast between the waltz theme and the idée fixe highlights the protagonist's emotional conflict.
• Berlioz's inventive orchestration and subtle dynamic shading create a vivid depiction of a Romantic ballroom, showcasing his ability to balance narrative and musical beauty.