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ORCID
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-0542-7950
Date of Graduation
5-9-2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)
Department
School of Music
Advisor(s)
Lori Piitz
Abstract
American composers Charles Griffes (1884-1920), Marion Bauer (1882-1955), and Mary Howe (1882-1964) are considered “Impressionist” composers by some scholars. This document will explore selected piano works of each composer to determine the extent to which impressionistic traits are present. Topics such as tonality, harmony, texture, and individual style will be examined, as well as the significant relationship between music and poetry. American Impressionism was short-lived but served as a link to Modernism, as all three composers eventually experimented with other styles. Early 20th-century American audiences, accustomed to the influx of European artists and music, were slow to embrace the new language of these composers. Bauer and Howe were particularly limited in their opportunities, being women in a field dominated by men. The document will also discuss how all three composers navigated these obstacles, promoted their music, and found publishers for their works.
Recommended Citation
Lim, Elaine Sara, "Impressionism in the hands of Griffes, Bauer, and Howe, and the musical climate in early 20th-century America" (2024). Dissertations, 2020-current. 133.
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/diss202029/133
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Composition Commons, Ethnomusicology Commons, Musicology Commons, Music Performance Commons, Music Theory Commons
