Analysis of Tonal Music: A Schenkerian Approach

by Allen Cadwallader, David Gagne

Designed as an introductory text for upper-level undergraduates and beginning graduate students, Analysis of Tonal A Schenkerian Approach explains the fundamental principles of Schenkerian analysis by focusing on the music itself. Intended for use in one- or two-semester courses on
Schenkerian theory, this text will also appeal to individuals interested in Schenker's work. The book assumes no prior knowledge of the subject, but it does require a background in harmony and voice leading; a familiarity with species counterpoint is also desirable. The authors develop Schenkerian
techniques through the practical analysis of specific compositions, an approach that parallels the evolution of Schenker's work. The book explains structural principles in actual composition rather than through models and formulas, and teaches students how to think about and critically examine
compositions in ways that will inform their understanding and performance of great compositions of Western art music.
The first part of the volume provides the foundation for the analysis of complete pieces and includes chapters on melody, bass-line structures, linear techniques, and the essential properties of the Ursatz and its basic elaborations; the presentation of complete compositions in Part II is
organized by formal category. The concluding chapter summarizes the main theoretical issues of Schenker's approach. The book includes over 200 analytical graphs, musical examples, and a bibliography. Analysis of Tonal A Schenkerian Approach provides a unique and accessible introduction to
Schenkerian analytical ideas and shows how they can be applied toward a better understanding of tonal music.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction, Textbooks

Hardcover

First published January 8, 1998

Reviews

[Richard Pohl · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are interested in this topic, this is probably the book to look up first (and the only one so far which clarified the whole thing enough, though it did not make me "Schenkerian" as I still believe the classic approach concerning the real music materia (harmony/melody/rhythm/themes/form) should come first).

[Amar]

Analysis of Tonal Music: A Schenkerian Approach

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had never been exposed to any Schenkerian analysis in my undergrad, but this book was a very palatable introduction to it.

[Rachel Czech · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book for a Graduate level class on Schenkerian Analysis. I loved the class and enjoyed learning about Schenker. This style of analysis I found very natural and discovered I had actually been practicing it before taking the class on my Bach Unaccompanied Cello Suites.

Based on my peers reactions, some ideas you have to grow accustomed to (such as each piece has an obligatory register) and others are simple to understand. I did not personally have any issues with Schenker's ideas or approaches, but they can be tricky for some.

[Rhea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was extremely useful for learning schenkerian analysis, but future editions could include a glossary and maybe simpler descriptions. Overall it was useful and mostly easy to understand

[Lorenzo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A slog, but worth it