Understanding Blue Notes in Music and Their Significance in 'A Streetcar Named Desire'

The term 'blue' in the context of music and 'A Streetcar Named Desire' is not a metaphor for the color of a piano but rather a specific musical technique that plays a significant role in setting the mood and characterizing the play. In this article, we will explore the concept of blue notes, how they are used in music, and their importance in Tennessee Williams' renowned play, 'A Streetcar Named Desire.'

What Are Blue Notes?

Blue notes are a central aspect of jazz and blues music, characterized by a specific inflection of certain notes that give a sense of melancholy or longing. These notes are typically semitones lower than the nearest natural note, creating a distinctive sound that jazz and blues are known for. While a piano cannot literally 'play blue notes,' this effect can be achieved by playing two adjacent notes in succession or by playing them simultaneously in different octaves, allowing the musician to evoke a deep emotional resonance.

The Role of Blue Notes in 'A Streetcar Named Desire'

Diegetic music in 'A Streetcar Named Desire' plays a significant role both as a mood setter and as a source of characterization. In the context of the play, 'diegetic music' refers to music that is real to the characters inside the play, as opposed to music that is perceived separately from the narrative, such as music in a film soundtrack.

Tennessee Williams, the author of 'A Streetcar Named Desire,' used music extensively to enhance the emotional and psychological atmosphere of the play. The play premiered in 1947 and is set in New Orleans and spans a period of two days in the life of Blanche DuBois, a woman grappling with the loss of her family's estate and her own declining mental health. The use of blue notes and diegetic music serves to underscore the delicate balance between intellect and emotion that Blanche struggles with, and to provide a more tangible and visceral emotional connection for the audience.

The importance of musical elements, particularly diegetic music, is underlined by Williams' intention to present a world where music is as much a part of the narrative as the dialogue and action on stage. For instance, the piano that Blanche plays is not just an object but an instrument that her character uses to express her inner turmoil. The presence of this piano and the music it produces play a crucial role in the psychological exploration of the characters, serving as a bridge between the surface-level actions of the play and the deep-seated emotional and psychological struggles of the characters.

Blue Notes Beyond 'A Streetcar Named Desire'

The use of blue notes in music extends far beyond 'A Streetcar Named Desire,' making them a fundamental part of American and world music. Blue notes are prominent in jazz, blues, and even in contemporary music genres such as rock, hip-hop, and even film scores. Musicians such as Billie Holiday, B.B. King, and John Coltrane have used blue notes to great effect, adding depth and emotional complexity to their performances.

In jazz, the use of blue notes often comes with the characteristic bend and slides, evoking a sense of melancholy and nostalgia. For classical musicians, achieving a blue note effect can involve specific finger techniques or careful tuning. In the broader context of music, the blue note is not just a musical technique but a cultural and emotional marker, embodying the African American experience and the universal human quest for expression and meaning.

Conclusion

'A Streetcar Named Desire' is a masterful exploration of the complexities of human relationships, mental health, and societal expectations. The use of blue notes in the score of the play, as well as the diegetic music performed by characters, adds a layer of emotional depth that resonates with audiences long after the final curtain has fallen. Whether we are discussing the techniques of jazz musicians or the psychological landscape of Tennessee Williams' characters, the impact of blue notes remains a vital and enduring element of musical culture.

By understanding the significance of blue notes in music and their role in 'A Streetcar Named Desire,' we gain a deeper appreciation for the power of music to convey emotion and narrative. This insight invites us to explore how music influences our emotional and psychological experiences, both on stage and in everyday life.