Basic Atonal Theory (Longman Music Series)

ISBN: 0582281172

Author: Rahn, John

Condition: Used

158 p. : ill. ; 26 cm. ; John Rahn's book gives a systematic, organized and well thought out approach to the study and appreciation of atonal (including serial) music. The reader is provided with the essential basics of the twelve pitch-class system by covering the fundamental mathematical principles associated with this analytic method. Rahn takes us through the pitch-class system one step at a time, constantly providing the reader with practical exercises and relating what has been taught to musical examples. It is perfect for composers, performers or listeners who have a good background in tonal music and wish to acquire a better understanding of atonal music. Overall, when Rahn is "musical" he is very musical. His philosophies clearly and logically support his musical intuitions and musical model of analysis. When Rahn is "mathematical" he is very mathematical. He seems to leave no stone unturned and gives us more than we technically need. It is interesting to see how he joins the musical and mathematical aspects of music in a quasi reconciliation. What Rahn forgot to mention was that "atonal filters" apply not only to our ears but also to our eyes in the way we visualize and symbolize notation and to our minds in the way we think about music in general.