Introduction to Graduate Theory: Teaching Tonal Hierarchy through Bach

Abstract

Many master's degrees in music require at least one theory course for all students. Variously titled Introduction to Graduate Theory, Analytical Techniques, or Graduate Theory and Analysis, such courses can be challenging to teach due to the varying majors, skills, and interests represented. These students need to synthesize and apply undergraduate-level theoretical concepts while also learning more sophisticated tools and techniques. One way to accomplish this is through a unit on select concepts from Schenkerian analysis. Teaching students to construct harmonic reductions can effectively introduce (or reinforce) tonal hierarchy—the most fundamental concept in Heinrich Schenker's theory. While simplifying a texture to show harmonic rhythm and voice leading is not unique to Schenkerians, such reductions enable discussion of advanced concepts including hierarchical levels, prolongation, and motivic parallelisms. Asking students to embellish a harmonic framework further reinforces these concepts.