The Grasshopper Play the MIDI file

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Analysis and comment by D, Hayes

This short composition has 8 bars consisting of four phrases. It does have clear musical structures which apply equally to longer and more complicated songs so is worth an analysis

There is a five note range of notes for each hand making  possible to perform without any arm movement. Notice how the tune hops creating a word painting effect. Also notice that the question in the third phrase (bars 5 and 6) ends on  the note D with a D and F in the bass creating an unfinished and questioning effect. (A question phrase) The song then ends with strong words and the right hand playing in thirds to increase the effect. There is a strong perfect cadence at the end. (answer phrase) Unfortunately the words 'little' and 'grasshopper' end up with the wrong accenting in the first two bars and so the rhythm needs changing here but there are many good features in the composition.

NB Joanne did not calculate any of this as she composed but depended on he knowledge of playing and singing other songs and ending up with something that she liked. This natural way of composing is usually the best way.  However when something goes wrong and starting again is not an option then the knowledge of the structures used by many song writers can be useful.