Adagio for Strings by

Samuel Barber
Partial Analysis
and Comments
Adagio is 133 measures long; begins with a tempo of Molto adagio, and
dynamics of pp. Dynamic changes are minimal in number (approx. 30)
and intensity changes. (Ex: pp to p, p to mf, and mf to p, p to pp);
changes are of long duration, exempting one part: dynamics begin with f
at ms. 84; at ms.96 begins crescendo for three measures, to level ff at ms.
99, finalizing with sffz at ms. 102.

Time Signature Changes: There are eight time signatures used: 4/4; 5/4;
4/4; 6/4; 4/4; 3/4; 5/4; 4/4. Time changes are placed for the purpose of
increasing or decreasing the count of a measure to ensure having a
designated chord on beat 1.

Barber repeatedly creates tension by playing a minor second or other

discord and then relieves them by following with a major chord. Note
arrows marking tensions for the first 10 measures. Typical throughout the
score.