Publication Date
2024
Document Type
Dissertation/Thesis
First Advisor
Hart, Brian J.
Degree Name
M. Mus. (Master of Music)
Legacy Department
School of Music
Abstract
Unlike other instruments, the harp was not used in chamber ensembles before the twentieth century. When it did start appearing in chamber ensembles, it was usually within programmatic works, non-traditional forms, unconventional instrument combinations, and mostly in France. At the same time, the harp began emerging as a chamber ensemble instrument, and a new genre of chamber music appeared: the chamber tone poem. There is a significant lack of scholarly research and literature as to why the harp appeared alongside chamber tone poems in these unusual chamber ensembles specifically at this time and especially in France. This paper will seek to draw connections between these phenomena by looking at the musical movements occurring at the turn of the twentieth century. Other factors that will be analyzed will include instrument innovations, orchestral works that include the harp, conservatory programs for harp students, and acclaimed harpists. The harp’s role in art and literature will also be considered. The findings will show that composers began using the harp as a replacement for the piano and that the harp contributed to the development of chamber tone poems due to its versatility and aesthetic qualities. Furthermore, the findings will show that the use of the harp in chamber tone poems set the trajectory for the instrument to become a popular choice for composers in their various ensembles throughout the second half of the twentieth century. The chamber tone poems that will be discussed are Debussy’s Danses sacrée et profane, Ravel’s Introduction et allegro, and Caplet’s Conte fantastique.
Recommended Citation
Stoner, Abigail Hughes, "Chamber Tone Poems at the Turn of the Twentieth Century: How the Harp Contributed to their Development" (2024). Graduate Research Theses & Dissertations. 7932.
https://huskiecommons.lib.niu.edu/allgraduate-thesesdissertations/7932
Extent
115 pages
Language
en
Publisher
Northern Illinois University
Rights Statement
In Copyright
Rights Statement 2
NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.
Media Type
Text
