Notations

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Abstract

Investigate Kandinsky Linee sotili e punto, 1926: similarity to Cornelius Cardew

Notation is one of the most important aspects of Western music, although its use at any particular level is by no means universal. Divergencies in the use of notation form possibly the greatest divide between musical styles and cultures, much as the use of writing marks a divide between cultures. Western genres such as pop, rock and jazz commonly use a basic form of notation that can communicate the basics but which leaves considerable room for freedom of individual performance. Indeed, many exponents of these arts are not able to read music. As a course based on the study of composition within the western classical tradition, I will mainly focus on the use of notation within this particular culture. However, it should be borne in mind that this is a particular bias, not an absolute.

Consider

Prepare

Main text (not usually available until after the lecture).