Classical Music for the Seasons Music for the Seasons    

Lesson 28: Symphony no. 5 - I. Trauermarsch

by Gustav Mahler

Performer: Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony

Directions

Study the musical selection for one week.

Over the week:

• Each day, listen to the musical selection.
• Practice reciting the title of the composition and the composer's name.
• Read the synopsis.
• Complete the enrichment activities.
• Study the review questions.

Synopsis

Transitioning from winter to spring, uncertain and unstable weather, and feeling invigorated and hopeful, you'll continue listen to selections that embody the turbulence of the transition from winter to spring. Listen to this music from the warmth and comfort of your home as the cold wind blows ice, snow, and rain all around you. Mahler composed Symphony no. 5 from 1901 to 1902. Trauermarsch (Funeral March) reflects the tumultuous process of grieving a loved one.

Enrichment

Activity 1: Describe the Music

After listening to the music, describe and discuss what you heard.

Read the list of adjectives below. Select those that describe the music or think up additional adjectives.

• Happy
• Sad
• Quiet
• Loud
• Fast
• Slow
• Scary
• Dreamy
• Magical
• Rhythmic
• Dignified

Activity 2: Discuss Feeling Sad and Mad

One day this week, as you listen to the music, discuss things that make you sad and mad.

• What makes you sad? Describe one time when you were sad about something.
• What makes you mad? Describe one time when you were mad about something.
• What do you do when you feel sad or mad?
• What should you do when you feel sad or mad?
• Who can you turn to for help when you feel sad or mad?
• Play-act becoming sad or mad and then use your words to talk about your feelings.

Review

Question 1

What is the title of the music?

1 / 3

Answer 1

The title is 'Trauermarsch.'

1 / 3

Question 2

Who composed the music?

2 / 3

Answer 2

The composer is Gustav Mahler.

2 / 3

Question 3

What is 'Trauermarsch' about?

3 / 3

Answer 3

'Trauermarsch' encapsulates the tumultuous process of grieving a loved one. People often feel sad or mad when they lose someone they love.

3 / 3

❮ ❯

1. What is the title of the music? The title is 'Trauermarsch.'
2. Who composed the music? The composer is Gustav Mahler.
3. What is 'Trauermarsch' about? 'Trauermarsch' encapsulates the tumultuous process of grieving a loved one. People often feel sad or mad when they lose someone they love.

References

'Symphony No. 5 (Mahler).' Wikipedia. Wikipedia.org. n.p.