Analysis of Tonal Music: A Schenkerian Approach

Designed as an introductory text for upper-level undergraduates and beginning graduate students, Analysis of Tonal Music: 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 Music: 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.

Allen Cadwallader is at Oberlin College Conservatory of Music. David Gagné is at Queens College, CUNY.