The Beatles: Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds - AQAThe elements of music to consider

Structure

The song is written in a verse-chorus format. The structure is:

1. intro
2. verse 1
3. pre-chorus
4. chorus
5. verse 2
6. pre-chorus
7. chorus
8. verse 3
9. chorus
10. chorus until fade-out.

Tonality

The song is written in three different keys:

• A major - introduction and verse
• B♭ major - pre-chorus
• G major - chorus

The song ends on an imperfect cadence - D major chord.

Rhythm and metre

The features to take note from the song are:

• the organ has offbeat chords
• there is the use of some dotted rhythms throughout the song
• augmentation is portrayed
• the intro, verses and pre-chorus are written in triple metre
• the chorus is in quadruple metre
• two contrasting tempos:
  • moderate tempo in verses and pre-chorus
  • faster in chorus

Instrumentation and timbre

The studio techniques to be aware of include:

• new recording techniques are used in the song – Lowrey organ, distorted lead guitar (through Leslie speaker) and tambura
• an echo effect is added to create a surreal feeling

Texture

If asked about the textures in the song, refer to:

• the organ intro is monophonic
• the overall texture is melody with accompaniment

Pitch and melody

Remember the following points regarding melody and pitch:

• the introduction is played by the organ. This ostinato is then repeated in the verse
• the song is made up of two melodies, both are almost identical
• there is limited melody in verse and pre-chorus
• tone painting is employed
• the melody has an echo effect added into the pre-chorus
• the melody uses a descending scale creating a conjunct movement
• the countermelody is played by the electric guitar through a Leslie speaker and the drone is played by the tambura
• harmonised thirds are portrayed in the chorus vocal melody
• the lead guitar has an improvised countermelody towards the end of the song

Dynamics

Consider the following dynamic points:

• the introduction of the piece is played in mezzo piano (mp)
• dynamics change to forte (f) on the last word “gone” in the pre-chorus
• the chorus is played in (f)
• the song ends with a diminuendo