contrast

I'm writing two pieces for school admissions, and the directions say two contrasting pieces. What would exactly count as contrasting. If one piece is in C and is adagio-andante can the other be in a and be andante? Or do I need a fast minor piece?

thanks

What they mean, more than likely, is a work for one sort of ensemble, and another work for a different ensemble.

Don't submit two pieces for solo instrument.

Don't use a movement from a flute sonata and a movement from a clarinet sonata.

If possible, a well-developed piece for a small ensemble (ie: sonata, trio, quartet) and a larger one demonstrating at least a tiny amount of ability at writing for, let's say, orchestra.

They aren't going to look at what keys you used. So a flute piece in C major and a flute piece in A minor isn't going to cut it.

the first piece i have written is for a small classical orchestra and chorus. would another orchestra piece then be unacceptable?

my assignment is as follows:

"audition procedures... Composers must submit scores and recordings of two contrasting works."

if my first piece is scored for orchestra and chorus and is andante in C Maj can the second also be scored for orchestra and chorus in a min?

There is no can or can't.

But use your head and think.

orchestra, tonal in C major, andante and chorus

Orchestra, tonal in A minor, again slow

Don't they look a bit too... the same?

The idea is to prove that you have more than 1 aces under your sleves.

It is about the technical and aesthetic part as well.

Big chances are that the two pieces will be a bit simmilar. Which will lead the jury to the question "does (s)he know anything else? How can (s)he prove that?"

Nobody will kill you if you go for orchestra in both occasions, but do make sure that there are plenty of other differences. Orchestration, mood, tempo, dynamics. etc... Although safer would surely be what QCC advises :)

No. Like Michel said, key does not matter. They are talking about the type of ensemble you are trying to use.

If you want to use one piece as an Orchestra and Chorus that is fine, but don't use another piece. Being able to write in keys is not what they care about, they want to see how you handle the voices producing the sound (A.K.A. the instruments themselves).

So, score a second piece for a Piano Trio or very small ensemble to show them the diversity and dexterity with the composition art that you have. If you write two pieces closely to the same orchestration, they will not judge you as greatly as they will if you can show them that you can write for two very different ensembles/choirs.

(EDIT: I just saw Nikolas's comments and I agree with him on that you can use orchestra, just make sure they are NOT anywhere close to the other piece)

How can you improve upon these faces?

OOO!! Lesson time! (Waits patiently for the answer from anh123)