Date of Completion
12-12-2014
Embargo Period
12-11-2014
Keywords
music, segmentation, contour, post-tonal, takemitsu, fukushima, morris, schultz
Major Advisor
Dr. Ronald Squibbs
Associate Advisor
Dr. Richard Bass
Associate Advisor
Dr. Alain Frogley
Field of Study
Music
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy
Open Access
Open Access
Abstract
Two concepts will be synthesized in this dissertation: 1) the creation of accessible computer applications for melodic segmentation and contour reduction and 2) the application of segmentation and contour reduction to analyze twentieth-century post-tonal works for unaccompanied flute. Two analytical methodologies have been chosen: James Tenney and Larry Polanski's Gestalt segmentation theory and Robert Schultz's refinement of Robert Morris's contour reduction algorithm. The investigation also utilizes Robert Schultz's concept of diachronic-transformational analysis in conjunction with contour reduction. While both segmentation and contour reduction are invaluable analytical tools, they are meticulous and time-consuming processes. Computer implementation of these algorithmic procedures produces quick and accurate results while reducing analyst fatigue and human error. Microsoft Excel is used to complete melodic segmentation. Java programming language is used to create a contour reduction application. Each implementation greatly reduces the time needed to segment and analyze a melody. Computer programming is combined with pitch class set analysis to produce informed and expressive musical interpretations.
Recommended Citation
Sekula, Kate, "Utilizing Computer Programming to Analyze Post-Tonal Music: A Segmentation and Contour Analysis of Twentieth-Century Music for Solo Flute" (2014). Doctoral Dissertations. 628.
https://digitalcommons.lib.uconn.edu/dissertations/628