The Influences of Émile Jaques-Dalcroze’s Eurhythmics Found in Frank Martin's 8 Préludes Pour Le Piano

摘要

Frank Martin's (1890-1974) 8 Préludes pour le piano has been studied and analyzed by many researchers, yet the influence of one of Martin's most important educational experiences, Dalcroze Eurhythmics, has not been discussed in connection to this work. The purpose of this research is to investigate the influences of Émile Jaques-Dalcroze's (1865-1950) educational method, eurhythmics, on Martin’s compositional writing, specifically the 8 Préludes pour le piano. This research demonstrates the connection between Martin and Dalcroze through several key observations: 1) their close collegial relationship; 2) the influences of Dalcroze Eurhythmics in Martin's approach to rhythm; and 3) Martin's writings on rhythm as connected to Dalcroze Eurhythmics. The examination of Frank Martin’s major piano work, 8 Préludes pour le piano, reveals a strong connection between these composers and their fascination with the expressive power of rhythm. In this paper, I examine the eurhythmics elements evident in Martin’s 8 Préludes pour le piano: irregular measures, unequal beats, polyrhythm, rhythmic counterpoint and canon. Additionally, Dalcroze Eurhythmics-based activities for learning Martin's 8 Préludes pour le piano are offered with the intent of enriching the pianist's experiences in learning and performing this piece and demonstrating the practical application of the method.