Dissertation Index



Author: Botelho, Mauro

Title: Rhythm, Meter, and Phrase: Temporal Structures in Johann Sebastian Bach's Concertos

Institution: University of Michigan

Begun: September 1989

Completed: March 1993

Abstract:

Building upon the theories of rhythm and meter of Kramer, Lerdahl and Jackendoff, Rothstein, and Schachter, this dissertation examines different aspects of musical time, and especially the interaction of rhythmic grouping, tonal grouping, and meter, in three concerto movements by J. S. Bach: the first movements of the Harpsichord Concerto in D Minor, the Violin Concerto in E Major, and the Third Brandenburg Concerto. Of special interest is the ambiguity surrounding the metrical structure in these three concerto-allegros, and the ways in which ambiguity is resolved. The final chapter summarizes the findings of the analytical study and suggests how high-level hypermeter can offer interesting insights into late-baroque music. Examining the interaction of tonal and rhythmic groupings is argued to be essential to any investigation of musical time.

TOC:

Chap. 1 - Historical Considerations and Methodology
Chap. 2 - Harpsichord Concerto in D Minor, BWV 1052
Chap. 3 - Violin Concerto in E Major, BWV 1042
Chap. 4 - Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 in G Major, BWV 1048
Chap. 5 - Conclusion

Contact:

Music Dept., Davidson College,
P.O. Box 358,
Davidson, NC 28036
Voice: 704 892 2355;
Fax: 704 892 2005;
email: mabotelho@apollo.davidson.edu


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