1. The Beatles would have been an ordinary band without the contributions of George Martin. Discuss.
2. Do you think that The Beatles’ evolution as lyricists matched their evolution as composers of musical settings? Is it even possible to separate these two areas of songwriting?
3. Provide musical evidence to support your view of why The Beatles split.
4. Assess George Harrison's compositional contribution to the artistry of The Beatles.
5. What role does the music and philosophy of India play in Beatles songs?
6. Define the ingredients that distinguish the songs of John Lennon from those of Paul McCartney.
7. According to Allan Kozinn (The Beatles, page 11) "The Beatles...had an unfailing ability to detect trends early, and when those trends matched their own impulses, they adopted and amplified them...." Do you agree?
Some general advice: This is a relatively short essay, and thus I am asking for quality rather than quantity of data. You are encouraged to read widely and think carefully to develop your own opinion, which should then be expressed with succinct reference to other authors (with whom you may agree or disagree). I am often asked how many sources is enough, and the answer is as many as it takes to make a persuasive point. Therefore, obviously, the more you read about your chosen topic, the better. (But please don't cite dozens of redundant sources when a half dozen will do!) Note too that I encourage clarity and eloquence in writing. Your grade will be judged on your idea and its argument, your research, and the quality of your writing.
· Bibliographies: MLA style.
· Footnotes: footnotes (or endnotes) are permitted, but should be kept brief.
sll
Essayinstruction.docx
0
