Music Appreciation is intended to welcome non-majors into the world of music by providing a basic knowledge of the essential elements of music as well as a brief overview of historical time periods in music. The main goal of this publication is to help students develop a deeper awareness and appreciation of the various directions and styles in Western music by listening and analyzing the most prominent compositions written during the last 1500 years.
Part I provides general information on music theory and performing media, including pitch, dynamics, rhythm, meter, music notation, texture, form, and key. Parts II through VI present an overview of the changing musical styles in Europe and later the United States, dating from the Middle Ages to the 21st century. Besides the text and illustrations, each chapter includes numerous music examples, a knowledge checkpoint, and a concluding quiz. Also provided in are helpful links to definitions and online listening examples.
With its accessible, concise, and integrative approach, this book is an ideal choice for courses in music appreciation and will help inspire a lifelong love of music.
Special thanks to Dr. Teresa Davidian (Tarleton State University) for editing the content and the entire staff of the Great River Learning for preparing the current publication.
Dmitry Perevertailenko is Associate Professor of Music at the Tarleton State University where he teaches the applied clarinet and music appreciation courses. His experience as a clarinetist includes numerous solo performances throughout the United States and Europe. Dmitry has also won multiple competitions, including the International Competition for the 50th Anniversary of Israel and the North Texas Concerto Competition.
Prior to his position at TSU, Dr. Perevertailenko taught at Sam Houston State University. He also held a Development Associate position with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.
Dmitry obtained the B.M. from the Moscow State Conservatoire, the M.M. from the Sam Houston State University, and the D.M.A. from the University of North Texas.
Part I: The Fundamentals
Chapter 1 Basic elements of music: Sound, Rhythm, Notation, Structure
Chapter 2 Performing Media
Part II: Middle Ages and Renaissance (450-1600)
Chapter 3 Middle Ages and Renaissance (450–1600)
Part III: Baroque Period (1600-1750)
Chapter 4 Instrumental Music in the Baroque Period
Chapter 5 Vocal Music in the Baroque Period
Part IV: Classical Period (1750-1820)
Chapter 6 Musical genres and forms during the Classical period
Chapter 7 Major Composers of the Classical Era
Part V: Romantic Period (1820-1900)
Chapter 8 Characteristics and Genres of Romantic Music
Chapter 9 Program Music, Nationalism and Exoticism
Part VI: Twentieth-Century and After (1900-2020)
Chapter 10 Musical Styles and Genres in Europe: 1900–1950
Chapter 11 Music in America (Pre-World War II)
Chapter 12 Musical styles after WW II