Posted by Sean Greene on March 19, 2003 at 17:30:06:
In Reply to: theory and tuba posted by lisa on March 18, 2003 at 20:53:56:
Wow Lisa, your question is a doozy, to say the least. Here are the types of analysis I use when preparing a piece for performance:
Am I producing a characteristic sound?
Are the intervals I'm playing in tune(in that context)? When you see patterns in what you are playing (ie:broken chords, inverted chords, outlined tonalities)you're using your theoretical training.
Rhythms. Is is rhythmicly accurate?
Is the tempo I'm playing what the composer intended?
Am I phrasing musically within the bounds of my previous three questions?
Does what I'm playing fit in with the other members of the ensemble (with regards to the first three questions?)
Does my performance adhere to the "practice techniques" of that piece of music according to when it was written and for whom (or what)?
Etc, etc, usw, usw.
So, yeah, I guess I use music theory a lot in my preparation for performance. My question is, how many subjects are you going to find that use absolutely no theory in their practice and can prove it? Wait a minute, I just remembered where you go to school. Never mind. Go Vols.:0) Just kidding. I'd like to discuss your thesis with you more, though. Send me an email.
Take it easy,
Sean
Sean Greene
DMA Candidate, UW-Madison
Conductor/Music Director, Madison Brass Band
Principal Tuba, Oshkosh Symphony Orchestra