record – LABS

Thesis Info

Abstract: 200-500 words: I study musical expression through a computer-based analysis of performance. The initial investigation is based on an analysis of twenty selected commercial recordings of J.S.Bach’s Sarabande from the C major Cello Suite BWV1009. I address the ways in which execution of timing, dynamics and intonation can be theorised according to three significant perspectives of musical performance; a theorist’s (Schenker), a psychologist’s (Todd) and a cellist’s (Casals). According to the current analysis, although ‘different languages’ seem to be in use between performer (the majority of sample cellists) and analyst (Schenker), a few sample cellists (e.g. Ma 1983 and Bylsma 1992) seem to speak the ‘same language’ as Schenker in shaping the Sarabande performance. Regarding Todd’s suggestion of the motor action between expressive timing and dynamics, the present study suggests that dual motor action is used more frequently in making detailed phrasing. The current analysis also reveals that Casals’ interpretative agenda of Bach performance is based on his rules of interpretation, which relate to his perception of the piece.