https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/112832 2026-04-14T05:40:47Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/117457 Title: Phrasing and articulation in the interpretation of nineteenth-century works for clarinet Abstract: Phrasing and articulation are important concepts that greatly contribute to the expression and shaping of a musical performance. By carefully working on using correct phrasing and articulation, the performer can enhance the quality of the rendition, making it more meaningful to the listener by affecting the mood, dynamics and emotions through the careful planning of breaths, slurs and intensity of staccato amongst other written notation conventions. The aim of this dissertation is to delve into the importance of proper phrasing and articulation while analising the two notions in context of the clarinet repertoire. The analysis of phrasing and articulation of nineteenth-century works for the clarinet is of central importance in this study as it is the century when the instrument flourished in its technical and musical potential, and where phrasing and articulation were greatly connected to and affected by emotions. A truly holistic approach to analysing and performing any repertoire is the ultimate goal and contribution of this dissertation through a case study methodology of two major works written for the clarinet. This approach will help to convey the composers’ musical and expressive intentions in the most effective and efficient way possible, which is essential for giving the music its true essence and meaning. Description: M.Mus(Melit.) 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/117456 Title: The singing flute : exploring the relationship between flute playing and the human voice in works of the nineteenth century Abstract: In this dissertation, original flute works based on vocal repertoire or were influenced by it, were explored. The objective was to analyse what a flautist can learn from a singer and apply it to their practice. Carmen, Der Rosenkavalier, Norma, and Lucia di Lammermoor are operatic works containing either flute and/or vocal solos. Selections from these operas were analysed to explore the similarities they share. Then the fourth chapter discussed works by Schubert, Widor, and Tchaikovsky which were performed in the final recital which are all works inspired by vocal repertoire or have lyrical motifs. With all this information, it was understood that professional flute players were always inspired by the human voice and that since the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, flautists have worked with professional singers and studied with them in order to improve their overall sound production. Description: M.Mus(Melit.) 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/113452 Title: Approaching minimalism in church music Abstract: In the twentieth century, a new movement termed minimalism in both art and music emerged. A movement described as a response to the avant-garde music being composed in the twentieth century. This led to research and identifying what is minimalistic music and how it was developed, discussed in detail in the first chapters. This dissertation aims to identify different approaches and techniques commonly used in minimalist music and explore various possibilities in how such techniques can be employed in sacred music. Therefore, different characteristics such as steady beat, reduction, repetition, gradual process, drones and continuity, all of which are devices commonly employed in minimalistic music, were explored and studied. Music composed by Steve Reich, Terry Riley, La Monte Young and Philip Glass, among others, share such characteristics. The music presented in this dissertation demonstrates how such techniques can be adopted and employed in sacred music. Apart from that it also demonstrates how techniques commonly found in liturgical music can be combined together and serve as the foundation of music composed in minimalistic style. Description: B. Mus (Hons)(Melit.) 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/113451 Title: The effect of arm weight and tension on touch and tone production on the piano Abstract: There is more to playing a piece of music than playing the right notes. How is a pianist able to create different tones? How can use of the body change the sound produced? What techniques are most suited for the chosen repertoire and why? This dissertation explores the answers to these questions through academic research and a case study of my own practice. In the first chapter, I will be speaking about how the piano works, how our body works and how it comes in to play in piano playing, and I will be looking at different schools of technique that arose throughout history. In the second chapter, I will be looking at different piano techniques, when and why they are used, and how they should be practised. In the third chapter, which is a Case Study, I will be speaking about how I applied the technqiues discussed in the second chapter to my chosen repertoire. I will be including the reasons for my choices and the effects that the technique have on the music. The conclusion will include general comments on what I have achieved through this dissertation as well as my limitations. It will also include my intentions for future endeavours. Description: B. Mus (Hons)(Melit.) 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z