From ‘What?’ to ‘Why?’ in Music Theory: Interpreting Analysis in Elektra, Florence Price’s Piano Sonata in E minor, and Wicked
Tuesday, February 18, 2025 4:15–6:00 PM
Description
Although syntactic elements of music (notes, scales, etc.) are integral to all pathways of music education, the
fundamental question music theory asks is not “what?”, but “why?” Out of an almost limitless palette of
possibilities, why these notes? Why these chords? Why these keys? This talk illustrates this “why?” through
analysis of three very different pieces—Richard Strauss’ opera Elektra (1909), Florence Price’s Piano Sonata
in E minor (ca. 1932), and Stephen Schwartz’ musical Wicked (2003). My analytical interactions with these
works intersect with issues of psychology, African American cultural heritage, and dramatic structure, and
invite the audience to consider how an in-depth understanding of music and theory can reveal subtle yet
meaningful connections between sounds, people, ideas, and societies across eras, genres, and cultural
practices. Refreshments will be provided. All are welcome.