The Serenades and Divertimenti of Mozart (open access)

The Serenades and Divertimenti of Mozart

This study has two divisions: Part I, an historical and analytical summary of the emergence and development of the divertimento and the serenade in the eighteenth century, and Part II, the culmination of these structures in the works of W. A. Mozart. Two primary purposes are envisioned: 1) to further our knowledge of how German Gesellshafts-musik evolved toward its peak in the second half of the eighteenth century, and 2) to furnish a useful analytical handbook of Mozart's works in these genres.
Date: June 1960
Creator: Gibson, O. Lee (Oscar Lee)
System: The UNT Digital Library
The Life and Music of Jacques-Christophe Naudot (open access)

The Life and Music of Jacques-Christophe Naudot

Favorable judgment of a work of art, or of a man, usually means that the work of art, or a record of the man, will be preserved for future generations to judge for themselves. An unfavorable judgment may result in a richly deserved obscurity or an irreplaceable loss, unless favorable circumstances combine to preserve the evidence for a more perspicacious generation. One can be forgiven if he distrusts history's judgment; mistakes which have been corrected are legion (the case of J. S. Bach comes most vividly to mind) and skepticism is warranted unless or until the facts are available for confirmation. It is difficult to explain the paucity of information about Jacques-Christophe Naudot, Not that he is another J. S. Bach; neither Fleury, who made the first serious effort to revive interest in his music in the early 1920's, nor Ruf, who has done much in this regard recently, nor this writer makes any such claim. He does not, however, deserve the obscurity that has been his lot. If his music is not always profound, it nevertheless has both intrinsic and historical value, and some of his works reveal considerable contrapuntal skill. It may be that Naudot stood in the …
Date: June 1970
Creator: Underwood, T. Jervis (Troy Jervis), 1932-
System: The UNT Digital Library
Teaching Creative Rhythmic Activities to Children: A Function of Progressive Education (open access)

Teaching Creative Rhythmic Activities to Children: A Function of Progressive Education

The purpose of this study is to present a personal interpretation of progressive education and its function in "teaching" primary music. A few supplementary aids are provided to correlate with the Amarillo, Texas, Course of Study for Primary Grades to lend aid and encouragement toward a rhythmic approach to child learning.
Date: June 1950
Creator: Koesjan, Barbara Lee
System: The UNT Digital Library
Innovations in the Usage of the Damper Pedal (open access)

Innovations in the Usage of the Damper Pedal

The piano first came into existence about 1709, but until the 1770's it was probably used most successfully as an accompanying instrument because of the small volume of tone it could produce. In its earlier stages the piano was not capable of producing even as big a tone as a large. sized harpsichord, During these seventy years piano builders experimented a great deal with the piano and its mechanisms, As with any instrument, some ideas were kept and improved, and others were tried and then discarded.
Date: June 1970
Creator: Richards, Ruby Juliet
System: The UNT Digital Library
Aspects of Idiomatic Harmony in the Harpsichord Sonatas of Domenico Scarlatti (open access)

Aspects of Idiomatic Harmony in the Harpsichord Sonatas of Domenico Scarlatti

Most of Domenico Scarlatti's harmonic progressions are quite orthodox when considered abstractly or free of their positioning in the score. The harmonic movement is given interest by subtle alterations in time; for example, (1) simultaneous upper and lower voices of different lengths, when repeated several times, change their relationship with each other; (2) one voice may be simply delayed so that it lags behind the other voice, thus combining to produce irregular harmonic sound on many succeeding beats; (3) the combination of two or more chords appearing on one beat is similar to number (2) but does not necessarily occur more than once.
Date: June 1961
Creator: Williams, Wiley John
System: The UNT Digital Library
The Oboe in Early American Music, 1600-1861 (open access)

The Oboe in Early American Music, 1600-1861

There are no records to substantiate that one of the passengers on the Mayflower brought an oboe with him in 1620, but diaries, journals, and newspaper articles document its presence and utilization in the United States a few years after that date. A reference to musical instruments occurs in the inventories of the goods of two neighboring New Hampshire "plantations" taken approximately ten years after they were originally settled. At "Newitchwanicke, ld of Julie, 1633. . . in the Great House, 15 recorders and hoeboys" were listed, while "at Pascattaquack 2d Julie, 1633," one day later, there were no less than "hoeboys and recorders 26" and "1 drume"!1 By 1635 New Hampshire had 56 oboes and recorders alone. 2
Date: June 1970
Creator: Rager, Brenda Marie
System: The UNT Digital Library
The Piano Style of Claude Debussy (open access)

The Piano Style of Claude Debussy

This thesis begins by describing the piano's history and development and then goes into how Claude Debussy used the piano in his music and the style in which he composed for the piano.
Date: June 1951
Creator: Ryan, Alexander Boggs
System: The UNT Digital Library
Music Education in the Protestant Church (open access)

Music Education in the Protestant Church

The purpose of this study was to determine and describe ways in which music education can be used in Protestant churches. During the last twenty years, participation in church music has grown very rapidly. The increase is a result of the growth of music in general. Music has become an important part of home, school, church, and community functions. This is evidenced by many facts: symphony orchestras, as well as community instrumental and choral groups have increased in number to the extent that there are more today than at any time in history; school music has taken tremendous strides since 19257 and church music programs have been developed to such a degree that they attract large numbers of people. In spite of the tremendous advance of music in general, and in the field of church music in particular, there is still much that needs to be done in church music. For example, when "Sacred Music" is mentioned to an average group of Americans, some will respond with blank and uninterested stares. Others will mention some of the well-worn sentimentalized, semi-religious songs such as "He," "The Man Upstairs," "You'll Never Walk Alone," or other examples of commercialized religion, Those people, and …
Date: June 1967
Creator: Sanders, Gurvis Glenden
System: The UNT Digital Library
The Secular Solo Songs of Pelham Humfrey (open access)

The Secular Solo Songs of Pelham Humfrey

Humfrey's music, which is chiefly sacred, includes a large number of anthems, odes, services and songs. His compositions, particularly his sacred compositions, have received extensive investigation only on one other occasion, in Henry Bryce Jordan's unpublished dissertation on the subject. Of his sacred music, the anthems form by far the largest and most signification part. Six of them were printed in W. Boyce's Cathedral Music (London, 1760); twelve more, including the "club anthem" and an evening service, are to be found as part of the Tudway Collection of the British Museum (Harl. MS 7338) and others are extant in manuscript at the libraries of Ely, Salisbury, Windsor, the Friz-william Museum (Cambridge), Christ Church (Oxford, Birmingham University, St. Michael's (Tenbury), and the Additional manuscripts in the British Museum. It was primarily int he anthems that Humfrey introduced into England some of the declamatory methods of the French theatre and thus secured for himself the credit of having established their form and style. His solo songs, on the other hand seem to occupy a somewhat less esteemed position, attributable perhaps to their remarkable simplicity, and in few cases to their apparent neglect of such musical fundamentals as melody and rhythm. It is …
Date: June 1966
Creator: Blancq, Charles, 1940-
System: The UNT Digital Library
The Development of an Objective Approach to the Measurement and Improvement of Aural Discrimination in Music (open access)

The Development of an Objective Approach to the Measurement and Improvement of Aural Discrimination in Music

The purpose of this experiment is therefore (1) to design a test to measure the skill of a heterogeneous group of college music students and (2) to administer and evaluate an aural training program which could be used to develop efficiently aural intelligence. The students used in this experiment were intentionally chosen with varying abilities in order to permit comparisons. A careful record was kept of their ages, musical experiences, major instruments (voice, piano, violin, and other orchestral instruments), amount of training, skill and technique, and theory grades.
Date: June 1951
Creator: Commander, Margie M. (Margie Marie)
System: The UNT Digital Library
Trends and Techniques of Public Relations in Music Education (open access)

Trends and Techniques of Public Relations in Music Education

The purpose of this study represents an illustration of the techniques of public relations in music education as well as the urgent necessity for their development. Especially during; this era, American public schools are faced with the problem of providing a balanced curriculum whose chief interests lie in subjects of a scientific nature. Educators feel that this type of training is not only necessary to keep the nation ahead or equated with others scientifically, but that it is inevitably the best in preparing the student for adulthood. Public school music, in many instances, has not lived up to its responsibilities in providing the kinds of music and the type of community service it should render. Consequently, many educators feel justified in either reducing or eliminating fine arts programs in their schools. It is necessary, therefore, that the music educator study measures of encouraging musical growth in his environment, and this growth can be assured through a study of the techniques and tools of public relations.
Date: June 1963
Creator: Scott, Lamar H. (Lamar Houston)
System: The UNT Digital Library
Influences Seen in Prokofiev's Piano Style (open access)

Influences Seen in Prokofiev's Piano Style

The influence of existing musical trends is evident in almost every composer. Prokofiev entered the musical scene in Russia when Scriabin was the recognized leader in innovation. To understand fully the rapid popularity of Prokofiev one must be aware of the musical forces of his time, the circumstances leading up to them and their influence on Prokofiev. In the latter half of the nineteenth century there began a movement toward nationalism in music. Among the most important of these nationalistic countries were Bohemia and Russia. Composers deliberately drew their inspiration from the musical resources of their native country. From all that is known a native Russian music did not exist before the nineteenth century. The music enjoyed by the upper class and royalty had to be imported. In the eighteenth century this included Italian opera and in the beginning of the nineteenth century, French opera. Pianists such as Field, Mayer and von Henselt were popular as both teachers and performers.
Date: June 1970
Creator: Lewis, Ronald Edwin
System: The UNT Digital Library
An Evaluation of Motion Picture Films for Use in Music Education (open access)

An Evaluation of Motion Picture Films for Use in Music Education

The purpose of this thesis is to present an evaluated list of motion picture films which are related to the field of music and the teaching of music in order that both teacher and student of music may become familiar with the films which are available for use in music education and with the relative merit of each film.
Date: June 1949
Creator: Bolin, Carl B.
System: The UNT Digital Library
The Pedagogy of Brass Instruments at the College Level (open access)

The Pedagogy of Brass Instruments at the College Level

Mainly, the purpose of this work is to give the brass instrument player a more thorough understanding of how to improve the many factors which combine to make up his technique as a whole; also, to give the brass instrument player a more thorough understanding of the construction and history of his instrument, as well as a list of books which can be useful in developing specific phases of brass instrument playing. In other words, this book is intended to be a help to all brass instrument players who want to learn more about their instrument as well as to improve on it.
Date: June 1950
Creator: Jenkins, Merlin E.
System: The UNT Digital Library
The Evolution of Musical Pitch Standards (open access)

The Evolution of Musical Pitch Standards

The purpose of this study is to show how standards of pitch became a matter of importance in musical performance. The existence of innumerable varieties of pitches was not an actual handicap in a time when voices were accompanied by only one instrument, or when a singer accompanied himself. But when instruments began to be used with the church organ, and ensembles were formed to play in the royal courts, a standard pitch was found to be desirable. Many factors were involved in the adjustments of pitch as small ensembles evolved into the military band and the symphony orchestra. An attempt will be made to show how many of the standards were derived, and what long lasting effects they had.
Date: June 1965
Creator: Kernek, Carol Thompson
System: The UNT Digital Library
Gustav Holst as a Choral Composer: His Life, Factors Influencing His Compositions, His Place in English Music, and a Consideration of the Principal Stylistic Elements of His Choral Music (open access)

Gustav Holst as a Choral Composer: His Life, Factors Influencing His Compositions, His Place in English Music, and a Consideration of the Principal Stylistic Elements of His Choral Music

"An amiable personality, not himself an unusually passionate man, HoIst has excited more violent passions than any other contemporary English composer. How difficult he is to assess as a creative artist is perhaps indicated by the extraordinary fluctuations in his reputation." For a number of years he was completely unknown and ignored, living a quiet and unhurried life as an obscure teacher. Then with a momentary flash, after outstanding works such as "The Planets," and the "Ode to Death," he was caught up in a wave of public approval that made him, for a time, the recipient of national and even international honors. He was awarded the gold medal by the Royal Philharmonic Society, was made a Fellow of the Royal Col.ege of Music, and was offered honorary degrees by American universities.
Date: June 1959
Creator: Daugherty, Leonard Valson
System: The UNT Digital Library
Contribution of the Westminster Choir Movement to American Choral Music (open access)

Contribution of the Westminster Choir Movement to American Choral Music

The purpose of this survey is to evaluate the contribution that the Westminster Choir movement has made to choral music in the United States today. It is hoped after the contributions have been stated by the investigator that the important position Westminster Choir College is occupying will be better understood.
Date: June 1942
Creator: Schmoyer, Helen Cecelia
System: The UNT Digital Library
Typical Elements of Brahms's Choral Style as Found in the German Requiem (open access)

Typical Elements of Brahms's Choral Style as Found in the German Requiem

An unusual opportunity to hear and perform this work has been afforded at North Texas State Teachers College by the presentation of the German Requiem in the summer of 1941. Furthermore, a Brahms Festival, including another presentation of the Requiem along with outstanding compositions of Brahms in other media, is to be given during commencement week of June, 1942. Not only does this type of emphasis promote interest among students and faculty, but it also serves as a stimulus to detailed study of the German Requiem, thus intensifying the immediate importance and personal significance of the subject.
Date: June 1942
Creator: Clemons, Ouida
System: The UNT Digital Library
A Comparative Study of Three Sonatas for Solo Brass Instruments and Piano by Paul Hindemith (open access)

A Comparative Study of Three Sonatas for Solo Brass Instruments and Piano by Paul Hindemith

In the years during the writing of The Craft of Musical Composition, and for the next few years afterwards, Hindemith was engaged in writing a solo sonata for each of the instruments of the orchestra. Muser states that this series of sonatas continues a definite policy of providing music for people who want to play music, and not merely to listen to it. The three sonatas for solo brass instruments and piano were written during this period. The sonatas, written for trumpet, horn, and trombone, were written in the following order: Sonata for Trumpet and Piano—1939; Sonata for Horn and Piano—1939; Sonata for Trombone and Piano—1941. These sonatas, being written rather closely together, should have certain stylistic characteristics in common, and there should also be certain features peculiar to each sonata. To study these sonatas and compare them with each other structurally and stylistically is the purpose of this work.
Date: June 1957
Creator: Alley, Edward Lee
System: The UNT Digital Library
A Survey of Musical Background and an Analysis of Mexican Piano Music 1928 to 1956 (open access)

A Survey of Musical Background and an Analysis of Mexican Piano Music 1928 to 1956

The Revolution of 1910 in Mexico marked a great political and social upheaval. At the same time a recasting of Mexico's music occurred. Modern Mexican music is a unique combination of the influence inherited from Europe and the indigenous music of the country. This work attempts to trace the development of that combination. Chapter I gives a background of music in Mexico through Pre-Cortesian times, the colonial period and the operatic nineteenth century. Chapter II deals with the men who shaped present day music in Mexico. Chapter III is an analysis of selected twentieth century piano works. The analysis shows the tendencies of ten Mexican composers in their use of melody and rhythm. It includes a discussion of harmonic structure and tonality. The composers whose works were chosen for consideration in the analysis range from Manuel M. Ponce, considered the father of modern Mexican music, to Carlos Chavez, recognized as the outstanding exponent of music in Mexico today.
Date: June 1957
Creator: Slight, Charlotte Frances
System: The UNT Digital Library
The Early English Ballad and Its Influence on Classical English Song (open access)

The Early English Ballad and Its Influence on Classical English Song

The English classical song is peculiarly native to Britain. It roots in the mystic elements of ballads and nature. It was the influence of the early English ballad, first spoken, then sung, then joined in the happy culmination of voice and melody to make a song that is immortal and unique in music.
Date: June 1948
Creator: Richards, Evan Cater
System: The UNT Digital Library
A Survey of Educational and Professional Background of Piano Teachers in the Colleges and Universities of the United States (open access)

A Survey of Educational and Professional Background of Piano Teachers in the Colleges and Universities of the United States

The purpose of this survey is to determine the educational and professional status of piano teachers in the colleges and universities of the United States. This survey will attempt to evaluate the musical and educational background as well as the professional status of people engaged actively in the teaching profession today.
Date: June 1948
Creator: Childress, Frances
System: The UNT Digital Library
The Genio-Hyoid Vocal Interference (open access)

The Genio-Hyoid Vocal Interference

Both science and empirical knowledge seem to indicate that anatomical considerations relating to potential muscular interference be established at the incipiency of the serious study of voice. Experience shows that if this aspect of vocal development is not pursued with utmost diligence, an early deterioration of the vocal instrument is possible many years before a normal expectancy. It has been discovered, also, that the study of articulation, pronunciation, modulation, emphasis, gestures and interpretation seem to avoid, primarily, the necessity of muscular training, per. This thesis will not include, in detail, the aspects of the use of the breath, except in a perfunctory manner. The same can be said of resonance and diction. It will endeavor, however, to indicate the muscular differences of the singing and swallowing actions. Furthermore, it will advance some suggestions for the avoidance of constrictive muscular influences which might impede the singing musculature. Finally, a phonatory process will be presented for consideration as a muscular mechanism to be made operative in connection with a direct control procedure.
Date: June 1960
Creator: Hargrave, William Kossuth
System: The UNT Digital Library
Sixteenth and Seventeenth Century Composers and Music Forms Which Influenced the Organ Works of J.S. Bach (open access)

Sixteenth and Seventeenth Century Composers and Music Forms Which Influenced the Organ Works of J.S. Bach

The music of Bach becomes much more understandable through an examination of the composers who work before him. An examination of the music of the pre-Bach composers proves it to be amazingly fresh and vital, and it was in this field that Back sought inspiration.
Date: June 1941
Creator: Smith, Laura Beattie
System: The UNT Digital Library