Music

Use the sources included in this subject guide to help you write your program notes.

Part 1: Piece identification

• Complete title with appropriate keys, numbers, opus numbers, and catalog numbers
• Date of composition (if known)
• Composer's full name, birth- death dates
• Movements or song titles to be performed
• Your name and instrument
• Your accompanist's name and instrument, if needed 

Part 2: Biographical and historical information

• When/where did the composer live?
• What events in his/her life may have influenced the composition?
• What was happening in surrounding environment (significant historical events) that may have impacted him/her?
• Is this a well-known or little-known piece by the composer?  Why?/Why not?

Part 3: Musical analysis and interpretation

• What are key musical elements of the piece? This may include elements such as form, rhythm, melody, harmony and accompaniment.
• What do you hope to express to the audience through your interpretation? What should the audience listen for?

 Part 4: Translation of any foreign language text 

From Millersville University Music - Program Notes, by Tatiana Pashkove-Balkenhol