Music Notation and Terminology


Read by LibriVox Volunteers

(4.6 stars; 5 reviews)

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) (6 hr 26 min)

Chapters

00- Preface 5:27 Read by Miriam Esther Goldman (1991-2017)
01- Some Principles of Correct Notation 9:55 Read by Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023)
02- Symbols of Music Defined 9:04 Read by THOVO
03- Symbols of Music Defined (continued) 8:54 Read by Patrick Wells
04- Abbreviations, Signs, etc. 8:02 Read by Jennifer Stearns
05- Abbreviations, Signs, etc. (continued) 14:32 Read by Sandra G
06- Embellishments 9:47 Read by Jennifer Stearns
07- Scales 14:10 Read by Jilliane Brandt
08- Scales (continued) 20:11 Read by Patrick Wells
09- Auxillary Words and Endings 8:39 Read by Jeffrey Powers
10- Measure 9:46 Read by Karen Commins
11- Tempo 9:12 Read by Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023)
12- Tempo (continued) 11:42 Read by Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023)
13- Dynamics 15:53 Read by Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023)
14- Terms Relating to Forms and Styles 11:14 Read by Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023)
15- Terms Relating to Forms and Styles (continued) 21:15 Read by Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023)
16- Terms Relating to Vocal Music 15:01 Read by Miriam Esther Goldman (1991-2017)
17- Rhythm, Melody, Harmony and Intervals 13:29 Read by Ruth Golding
18- Chords, Cadences, etc. 13:25 Read by Todd Garrison
19- Miscellaneous Terms 13:28 Read by Mark I. Smith
20- Miscellaneous Terms (continued) 9:37 Read by Patrick Wells
21- Appendix A- The History of Music Notation 26:16 Read by Kara Shallenberg (1969-2023)
22- Appendix B- Musical Instruments 35:51 Read by Sandra G
23- Appendix C- Acoustics 14:40 Read by Rachel Gatwood
24- Appendix D- Terminology Reform 24:02 Read by David P. Sroka
25- Appendix E- Analysis of Beethoven Sonata, Op. 31, No. 3 8:43 Read by Jeanie
26- Pronouncing Index 24:03 Read by Diana Majlinger

Reviews

Great Credit to the Readers


(5 stars)

I have yet to finish listening to this but at the end of the first chapter, I was seriously impressed by the readers' performance and the inclusion of both music and descriptions of the illustrations. It was an ambitious undertaking and well executed. Passing acquaintance with musical terminology may be required to comprehend the first chapter but some of the terms used appear to be elaborated on later. Useful in combination with other materials for learning basic music theory.