Degree
Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)
Department
Music
Document Type
Dissertation
Abstract
This document aims to provide insight into William Bolcom’s Three Classical Rags through harmonic and formal analysis of each rag, investigating the ways in which they fulfill or subvert the expectations of ragtime. The study begins with a description of the harmonic language, form, and metric structure typical of ragtime composers like Scott Joplin and Joseph Lamb. Examples of rags that maintain these characteristics are The Entertainer by Joplin, Heliotrope Bouquet by Louis Chauvin and Joplin, and Top Liner Rag by Lamb. Analysis of Bolcom’s Three Classical Rags ensues, exploring the ways they both honor and subvert the expectations of ragtime harmony, form, and meter. An understanding of the three rags’ harmonies, form, and the use of texture will aid performers in their approach to the pieces.
Date
5-24-2024
Recommended Citation
Owens, Thomas A., "An Analysis of William Bolcom's "Three Classical Rags"" (2024). LSU Doctoral Dissertations. 6482.
https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_dissertations/6482
Committee Chair
Gurt, Michael
DOI
https://doi.org/10.31390/gradschool_dissertations.6482