INTRODUCTION TO SCHENKERIAN ANALYSIS

Catalog description

This course introduces students to the principles and techniques of Schenkerian analysis, a method of music theory developed by Heinrich Schenker for understanding the structure and coherence of tonal music. Focusing on the hierarchical organization of pitch and rhythm, students will explore Schenker’s concepts of line, prolongation, and voice-leading. Through close analysis of works from the common-practice period, students will learn to create and interpret Schenkerian graphs, emphasizing the interplay between foreground, middleground, and background levels of musical structure. The course includes hands-on exercises, score analysis, and discussions of theoretical texts to develop analytical skills and deepen musical understanding. PREREQ: MUSC 253 AND MUSC 254 OR INSTRUCTOR CONSENT