Success Of Defying Gravity
Uncovering the Success of Defying Gravity
By Micha Konopka
A truly inspirational song, that repeatedly receives thunderous applause, Wicked’s showstopper Defying Gravity is an exceptional composition accompanied by an electrifying performance. As a showstopper it’s role is to excite the audience, which it most certainly does. With Awarding-winning composer Stephen Schwartz being the genius behind the song, it’s no secret why Defying Gravity is such a success. Through his manipulation of the various musical elements, specifically melody and accompaniment, and the unification of the lyrics and music, Schwartz has without doubt created a showstopper by capturing the audience and allowing them to share the character's passion and excitement. …show more content…
It features a colourful collection of other works with Defying Gravity being the rousing Act I finale. Regarded as the signature song of the show, it is a thrilling performance about Elphaba declaring her independence, and defying the forces which conspire against her.
Whilst the song begins with an argument between the two witches, it is not until bar 38 that the unmistakable verse and chorus is heard. Following the basic verse-chorus form, the verse and chorus is heard another two times, with two bridges in between and a final coda, however initially with the strings playing tremolo underneath the melody, an atmosphere of anticipation is created. The creation of this initial atmosphere is what later allows for such an electrifying and successful climax.
Once the verse has developed into the chorus, the tempo livens to Allegro. This change of tempo is one of many constant and strategic changes which highlight important moments and engage the audience by keeping them guessing. Additionally, underneath the chorus, the accompaniment plays an ascending sequence which emphasises the unimportant beats, further creating the illusion of eagerness and
By Micha Konopka
A truly inspirational song, that repeatedly receives thunderous applause, Wicked’s showstopper Defying Gravity is an exceptional composition accompanied by an electrifying performance. As a showstopper it’s role is to excite the audience, which it most certainly does. With Awarding-winning composer Stephen Schwartz being the genius behind the song, it’s no secret why Defying Gravity is such a success. Through his manipulation of the various musical elements, specifically melody and accompaniment, and the unification of the lyrics and music, Schwartz has without doubt created a showstopper by capturing the audience and allowing them to share the character's passion and excitement. …show more content…
It features a colourful collection of other works with Defying Gravity being the rousing Act I finale. Regarded as the signature song of the show, it is a thrilling performance about Elphaba declaring her independence, and defying the forces which conspire against her.
Whilst the song begins with an argument between the two witches, it is not until bar 38 that the unmistakable verse and chorus is heard. Following the basic verse-chorus form, the verse and chorus is heard another two times, with two bridges in between and a final coda, however initially with the strings playing tremolo underneath the melody, an atmosphere of anticipation is created. The creation of this initial atmosphere is what later allows for such an electrifying and successful climax.
Once the verse has developed into the chorus, the tempo livens to Allegro. This change of tempo is one of many constant and strategic changes which highlight important moments and engage the audience by keeping them guessing. Additionally, underneath the chorus, the accompaniment plays an ascending sequence which emphasises the unimportant beats, further creating the illusion of eagerness and