Text-music relationships in selected lieder of Erich Wolfgang Korngold

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Authors
Burt, Diane
Advisor
Zhong, Mei
Nagel, Jody, 1960-
Issue Date
2015-07-18
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (D.A.)
Department
School of Music
Other Identifiers
Abstract

This study presents an analysis of representative lieder (art songs composed in German) and art songs composed in English by Erich Wolfgang Korngold (1897-1957). The focus of this study includes the use of musical elements, stylistic characteristics, and interpretation of poetry, which make up the text-music relationships. Korngold’s unique compositional style uses form, proportion and rhythm, pitch language, tempo, dynamics, vocal quality, and symbolic materials to enhance the text. This study contains an introduction in the first chapter followed by a detailed musical analysis of ten of Korngold’s lieder and songs in chapters two through seven. Chapter seven compares two lieder, one of which was composed early in Korngold’s career, and the second, which is based on the same melody as the first, but which was reworked and enhanced late in the composer’s career. Chapter eight emphasizes the stylistic similarities and differences between Korngold’s early, middle, and late compositions. It is often expected that the style of a composer will become more complex throughout his life; however, there are certain characteristics of Korngold’s style which he established and retained, making Korngold’s style particularly interesting. This analysis of representative German lieder and English songs provides performers with a scholarly understanding of Korngold’s style. An informed performance, in which the performers are mindful of the composer’s structural and expressive intentions, enhances the educational and musical experience for both performers and audience.