A Journey Through the Forest: The Evolution of Concept Albums and Song Cycles

Location

King Building 341

Document Type

Presentation

Start Date

4-28-2017 3:00 PM

End Date

4-28-2017 4:20 PM

Abstract

This project examines the parallel development of the genres of concept albums and song cycles, analyzing them both historically and analytically. This will be done using four case studies: Winterreise, Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, and The Hazards of Love. There has been limited research comparing these two genres. The historical evidence is paired with analysis of narrative, tone painting techniques, and a discussion of how these two genres incorporated diverse musical styles (folk-type music, hymnody, metal and rock). This analysis will illustrate that both the concept album and the song cycle have developed in the same manner, growing more complex with every new iteration. This paper will be used to show not only their evolution but how both have been received, and how their paths have diverged.

Keywords:

music, song cycle, concept album, popular music, romantic music

Notes

Musical Studies Capstone Panel
Session II, Panel 9 - Musical | Genres
Moderator: Ben Geyer, Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Theory

Major

Musical Studies

Advisor(s)

Charles McGuire, Musicology

Project Mentor(s)

Charles McGuire, Musicology
Erik Leidal, IES Abroad Vienna Center

April 2017

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Apr 28th, 3:00 PM Apr 28th, 4:20 PM

A Journey Through the Forest: The Evolution of Concept Albums and Song Cycles

King Building 341

This project examines the parallel development of the genres of concept albums and song cycles, analyzing them both historically and analytically. This will be done using four case studies: Winterreise, Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, and The Hazards of Love. There has been limited research comparing these two genres. The historical evidence is paired with analysis of narrative, tone painting techniques, and a discussion of how these two genres incorporated diverse musical styles (folk-type music, hymnody, metal and rock). This analysis will illustrate that both the concept album and the song cycle have developed in the same manner, growing more complex with every new iteration. This paper will be used to show not only their evolution but how both have been received, and how their paths have diverged.