The solo horn and organ tradition: An analysis of Peteris Vasks's 'Musique du Soir'

摘要

The compositional pairing of horn and organ is less common, in comparison to the more popular combination of trumpet and organ, perhaps a result of this pairing being a more recent development in Western art music. In the second half of the twentieth century, composers showed an increased interest in combining the horn and organ particularly in France, the United States, and Eastern Europe. In Paris, the influence of the French organ school was a prime motivator in this ensemble shift along with the desire amongst composers to explore new timbral options. This horn and organ pairing had an influence on the works of Latvian composer Peteris Vasks, whose catalog includes many compositions for organ in addition to one solo composition for horn with organ accompaniment---Musique du Soir (1988).;This study includes an analysis of cultural context, form, and oral history methodologies. In order to gain insight into the reasoning for the late development of the horn and organ pairing, it is important to understand the influences and arrangements that came out of France in the first half of the twentieth century, the compositional mind-set that was popular in the mid-twentieth century in regards to the fixation upon new timbres and ensembles, and the issue of horn with a piano accompaniment as a mundane entity. Musique du Soir (1988), is based on themes of nature and is composed in a free form that reflects the freedom in nature. A formal and melodic analysis will examine these features and explore how they work within this piece. In addition, information from personal interviews with the composer will give insights into Vasks' compositional process and provide a detailed look at the importance of the horn and organ pairing to the composer.;Peteris Vasks, an important figure within Latvian art music, and his horn and organ work exemplifies the richness of tradition within his compositions and the importance that he has placed in Latvian art music, an often overlooked genre.