Approaches to Analysis
MUSIC 225R
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
This course takes on music theory’s obsession with musical form. This overriding goal means two distinct things: it “takes on”—grapples with—the powerful tradition of musical formalism by exploring how musical forms are successfully analyzed, and at the same time it critically interrogates why music theory is so preoccupied with this aspect of music over all others. Traditionally, musical form in general has meant sonata form in particular. But this tacit equation—and the entire formalist tradition—becomes more difficult to maintain as the discipline opens up to new fields and repertoires—music in which formal analysis, according to traditional principles, may no longer yield the same kinds of results. What are the tools do we need to hone, as music theory reaches for new goals and ideals? How does the notion of form need to open up to embrace these changes?
Class Notes
Open only to graduate students in the Music Department.
Available for Harvard Cross Registration
