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Music Notation and Terminology

Until relatively recently, music students at all levels of study—from the conservatories to public schools—had few resources available for the formal study of musical notation and terminology in the classroom. In fact, it was not until 1914, when Professor Karl Gehrkens at the Oberlin School of Music published this compilation of class notes and sources he collected over the years, that a uniform text became available for schools and universities everywhere. Since the publication of this monumental work, similar textbooks have emerged, but Dr. Gehrkens’ contribution remains thoroughly worthwhile—particularly since it provides not just the definitions of musical terms, but also the historical context of those terms. This inclusion enables students of music to better understand and remember those terms, and provides a platform from which Gehrkens argues for a uniform usage of musical terminology. Also included in the book are numerous musical excerpts, pictures, and actual analyses of musical examples.

Recommended for the musically curious as well as the serious musical student. (Summary by Susan)

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00- Preface (Miriam Esther Goldman (1991-2017))
01- Some Principles of Correct Notation (Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023))
02- Symbols of Music Defined (THOVO)
03- Symbols of Music Defined (continued) (Patrick Wells)
04- Abbreviations, Signs, etc. (Jennifer Stearns)
05- Abbreviations, Signs, etc. (continued) (Sandra G)
06- Embellishments (Jennifer Stearns)
07- Scales (Jilliane Brandt)
08- Scales (continued) (Patrick Wells)
09- Auxillary Words and Endings (Jeffrey Powers)
10- Measure (Karen Commins)
11- Tempo (Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023))
12- Tempo (continued) (Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023))
13- Dynamics (Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023))
14- Terms Relating to Forms and Styles (Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023))
15- Terms Relating to Forms and Styles (continued) (Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023))
16- Terms Relating to Vocal Music (Miriam Esther Goldman (1991-2017))
17- Rhythm, Melody, Harmony and Intervals (Ruth Golding)
18- Chords, Cadences, etc. (Todd Garrison)
19- Miscellaneous Terms (Mark I. Smith)
20- Miscellaneous Terms (continued) (Patrick Wells)
21- Appendix A- The History of Music Notation (Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023))
22- Appendix B- Musical Instruments (Sandra G)
23- Appendix C- Acoustics (Rachel Gatwood)
24- Appendix D- Terminology Reform (David P. Sroka)
25- Appendix E- Analysis of Beethoven Sonata, Op. 31, No. 3 (Jeanie)
26- Pronouncing Index (Diana Majlinger)
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