Topmusicanswers
- What is included in a program note?
- How do you write a program note?
- How long should a program note be?
- What is the purpose of program notes?
What is included in a program note?
The program note takes the form of a short text about a musical work, often containing historical context, composer biographical details and compositional thinking. ... In particular, the study sought to understand, in a more systematic way, the intended recipient, role and the content of composer-written program notes.
How do you write a program note?
Program notes typically start with a heading that includes the full title with appropriate keys, numbers, opus numbers, and catalog numbers, date of composition, the composer's full name and dates, movements or song titles to be performed, names of instrumentalists/vocalist performing.
How long should a program note be?
Generally a page or two in the program (say 400-1000 words) is adequate. This is not a research paper: program notes should avoid stiff and formal "academic" language.
What is the purpose of program notes?
Program notes serve two purposes: to provide historical and background information on the piece and, if necessary, the composer, and to give the audience some sense of what to expect, and what possibly what to listen for, when listening to the work.
