Analysis Through Composition: Principles of the Classical Style

In this textbook, Nicholas Cook provides an unusual and stimulating approach to musical analysis through the study of style composition. The emphasis is on analytical decision-making within a practical context, drawing on a wide range of music from J. C. Bach to early Beethoven. The text offers an in-depth discussion of specific pieces, which students can use as a basis for working the set assignments. For some of these assignments there are worksheets, which may be freely photocopied. There is much use of contemporary source materials, ranging from Thomas Attwood's studies with Mozart to sketches and musical games; this provides historical orientation and draws together an appealing combination of musical disciplines.

CONTENIDO:

Introduction: A page of music

I. Harmony and texture
1. Arrangement
2. Accompaniment

II. Harmony and line
3. Melody and bass
4. Modulation and chromaticism
5. A lesson from Mozart

III. Variation and expansion
6. Varying a line
7. Keyboard variation
8. The classic composer's workshop
9. Cadenzas

IV. Sonata
10. The complementation of dance and fantasy
11. Three into two will go
12. A sonata in the making

Conclusion

Appendix 1. A checklist of classical harmony
Appendix 2. Instrumental ranges

Glossary
Worksheets