The Wandering Minstrel Variation, Modality, Song and Healing in the Solo Piano Works of Contemporary American Composer Glenn E. Smith with Emphasis on Wandering Minstrel (1985), Waltzes Books I-III (1982-2006), and Dhirling Wervish Phantasy (2009)

This dissertation presents analyses of 17 solo piano works by the American composer Glenn Edward Smith, professor emeritus at George Mason University. This is the first secondary source on this subject. Insights from 12 interviews with this living composer are unique to this paper and are woven into the analysis of his music. Works chosen include Wandering Minstrel, three books of 15 waltzes, and Dhirling Wervish Phantasy, pieces composed between the years 1982 and 2009. Analytical methods in this dissertation combine form, harmonic, lyric, and contextual analysis. Smith’s distinct use of variation is showcased from his waltzes to larger piano works through rhythmic and harmonic variety. He departs from traditional tonality, incorporating modality (particularly Dorian mode) and unexpected resolutions. Smith’s waltzes in particular were imagined through song and lead sheet or were later made into song. They have jazz inflections in their harmony and form, with material often extending into a jazz solo improvisation section. Sometimes, the traditional waltz meter is felt, but often freedom in rhythm is embraced in his works, including syncopation and rhythmic displacement, prominent especially in the 20th century. This dissertation also highlights Smith’s revelations and vision in intent: music as something ‘to make people feel better,’ and music as a means toward connection, well-being, and healing. Following analyses, a chronological listing of Smith’s solo piano compositions and bibliography are included.

Author

• Slay, Megan Joanna

• Glenn E. Smith
• Healing
• Modality
• Solo Piano
• Variations
• Waltzes

Identifier

hdl:1920/15236

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:MARS:1920/15236