Drum taps: a performance guide to the song cycle by Richard Pearson Thomas

Abstract

Smith, William Clay, B.A., Campbellsville University, 2000 Master of Arts in Music, Campbellsville University, 2001 Doctor of Musical Arts, Fall Commencement, 2009 Major: Music Drum Taps: A Performance Guide to the Song Cycle by Richard Pearson Thomas Written Document directed by Kirkpatrick Professor of Voice Robert Grayson Pages in written document, 147. Words in abstract, 120. ABSTRACT Composer Richard Pearson Thomas has gained recognition from his art song “I Never Saw a Moor” and his participation in the AIDS Quilt Songbook, but his song cycle Drum Taps has often been overlooked. This document examines the baritone song cycle which was completed in 1990. The study begins with biographical synopses of the composer and the poet, Walt Whitman, as well as brief information about the poetry from which Drum Taps is drawn. Subsequent chapters focus on the five songs of the cycle, studying each song’s text, sound, harmony, melody, rhythm, growth throughout the piece, and performance practice. The information is presented as an aid to preparing and performing the work. Additionally, an appendix presents the composer’s complete works.