Degree

Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)

Department

School of Music

Document Type

Dissertation

Abstract

A golden age of violin playing arose during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Different violin schools were established, with their own beliefs concerning technique and interpretation. Some violinists displayed high virtuosity in their playing; whereas, others pursued establishing a noble and simple interpretation following the composer’s musical instruction. Different playing styles were developing, and people had their own preference on one or another. Eugène Ysaÿe was able to present qualities from different schools altogether in his playing, and developed a style of playing that was admired by the later generation. Many violinists in the late 19th century were attracted to composing virtuosic pieces, (Paganini, Sarasate, Wieniawski). Ysaÿe also composed, and he was able to incorporate different musical elements altogether in his works while still presenting virtuosity. His compositions brought the violin repertoires to an achievement of higher artistic value. This project will explore Ysaÿe’s contribution to the contemporary style of violin playing and composition through historical research and analysis of his composition. By comparing his playing with the other playing styles at that time and discovering the unique features in his composition, we will reveal the birth of modern violin playing and composition.

Date

4-18-2022

Committee Chair

He, Lin

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_dissertations.5826

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