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Date of Graduation
5-15-2026
Semester of Graduation
Spring
Degree Name
Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)
Department
School of Music
First Advisor
Gabriel Dobner
Second Advisor
Andrew Connell
Third Advisor
Jason Haney
Abstract
Joan Tower’s post-2000 piano compositions show her unique approach to rhythmic complexity and harmonic innovation. While existing research focuses heavily on her earlier music, her recent piano pieces require further exploration from a performer’s perspective. This dissertation analyzes four specific works: Vast Antique Cubes (2000), Throbbing Stills (2000), Ivory and Ebony (2009), and Steps (2011). It explores how Tower’s compositional choices directly affect piano performance and the listener’s experience.
The first section explores Tower’s rhythmic language in “Steps” and “Throbbing Stills.” The analysis shows how Tower uses frequent meter changes, sudden rhythmic shifts, and strong contrast between motion and stillness. She uses these elements as expressive tools that challenge the pianist both physically and mentally. The second section focuses on her harmonic approach. In “Ivory and Ebony”, Tower uses the physical layout of the black and white keys to organize her harmonies. In “Vast Antique Cubes,” she creates tonal ambiguity by shifting between octatonic and whole-tone collections.
By comparing Tower to composers like Ligeti, Carter, Messiaen, Copland, and Crumb, this study shows her distinct musical voice. Unlike composers who use complex techniques mainly for structural purposes, Tower focuses on immediate musical and expressive goals. Understanding these rhythmic and harmonic frameworks provides pianists with practical ways to navigate Tower’s challenging works and perform them effectively.
Included in
Composition Commons, Musicology Commons, Music Performance Commons
