Modulation — the change from one key to another — is a subject of critical importance to performers and composers in their study of harmony. This concise guide by a progressive early modernist offers valuable insights and instruction. Suitable for musicians at all levels. Newly typeset and engraved. Reprint of On the Theory of Modulation, C. F. Kahnt Nachfolger, Leipzig, 1904.
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Musical Structure and Design by Cedric T. Davie Clear, elementary explanation of basic forms, Renaissance to 1900, with many works analyzed. Nature and function of concerto, sonata, etc., clarified with nonmusical analogies; illustrated in detailed analysis of specific piece of music.
Structural Functions in Music by Wallace T. Berry A brilliant investigation into musical structure through a systematic exploration of tonality, melody, harmony, texture, and rhythm. Discusses early madrigals and Gregorian chants through Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms to Ravel, Bartók, and Berg.
Structural Hearing: Tonal Coherence in Music by Felix Salzer Extends the Schenker method to modern, medieval, renaissance music. Tonal organization, analyzes over 500 pieces, connects theory and composition.
Treatise on Harmony by Jean-Philippe Rameau One of most important books in Western music. Detailed explanation of principles of diatonic harmonic theory. New 1971 translation by Philip Gossett of 1722 edition. Many musical examples.
Guide to the Practical Study of Harmony by Peter Ilyitch Tchaikovsky Written during Tchaikovsky's years as professor at the Moscow Conservatory, this clear and thorough introduction to the study of harmony features numerous examples and exercises.
Five Graphic Music Analyses by Heinrich Schenker Voice-leading, tonal coherence in graphic notation, entire works: J. S. Bach, "Chorale" from St. Matthew Passion; "1st Prelude," Well-Tempered Clavier; Haydn: E-flat Major Sonata; Chopin: Etudes 8, 12, Opus 10.
Counterpoint: The Polyphonic Vocal Style of the Sixteenth Century by Knud Jeppesen First paperback edition of classic introductory text features history of contrapuntal theory, technical features, "species" exercises in 2-, 3- and 4-part counterpoint; canon, motet, Mass, more. Includes many musical examples.
Treatise on Instrumentation by Hector Berlioz, Richard Strauss This influential work appraises the musical qualities and potential of over 60 stringed, wind, and percussion instruments. Includes 150 full-score musical examples from works by Berlioz, Mozart, Beethoven, Wagner, others. Foreword by Richard Strauss.
Orchestration by Cecil Forsyth Probably best general book on the subject. Thorough discussion of 57 instruments, technical aspects of writing for each, much else.
On the Sensations of Tone by Hermann Helmholtz This masterly treatment of classical acoustics embodies the great physicist's lifetime of research and presents his vast knowledge of the field in a clear, easy-to-follow account. Includes 68 figures.
Principles of Orchestration by Nikolay Rimsky-Korsakov Great classical orchestrator provides fundamentals of tonal resonance, progression of parts, voice and orchestra, tutti effects, and much else in major document. Includes 330 pages of musical excerpts.
Introduction to the Psychology of Music by Geza Révész Comprehensive introduction by noted musicologist covers physical and physiological bases of sound and hearing, elements of tone, pitch, musical ability, origins of music, psychology of music, much more.
