Thesis submission ID 772 | created
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Clare McCague, Suite for Harp op.83 by Benjamin Britten: A Performer's Perspective
Volumes, pp.: 1 (34pp)
Supervisor(s): Pádhraic Ó'Cuinneagáin
Repository (hard copy): DIT Conservatory of Music & Drama Library
General specialism: Musicology: Performance Studies
Abstract:
Despite extensive and consistent use of the harp throughout his compositions, the English composer Benjamin Britten composed only one solo work for concert harp. 'Suite for Harp Op.83.' is considered a masterpiece of 20th-century harp repertoire. It was composed in 1969 for the eminent Welsh harpist, Osian Ellis.
This dissertation is written from the perspective of the performer and explores specific aspects of this composition. The aim of this dissertation is to gain and academic understanding of 'Suite for Harp Op.83' which it is hoped will enhance performance and interpretation of the work.
Chapter 1 is introductory in nature and explores the background to the work, Britten's relationship with Osian Ellis, and his relationship with the harp as an instrument throughout his compositional career.
Chapter 2 focuses on the stylistic influences in the work and also explores how Britten utilised the harp's unique sound resources (such as glissandi) to project his musical ideas.
Chapter 3 discusses issues which may affect performance and interpretation of this work.
Finally, the Conclusion draws together the author's main observations in relation to performance of this work.
THe Appendices to this dissertation include:
(i) A copy of the score of 'Suite for Harp Op.83', including the accompanying 'Editor's Note' from Osian Ellis.
(ii) A copy of an email recieved from Osian Ellis on 21st April 2013 in response to questions from the author
(iii) A photograph of the author and Osian Ellis, taken in Caernarfon, Wales on 4th April 2013
Clare McCague, Suite for Harp op.83 by Benjamin Britten: A Performer's Perspective
BA, Dublin Institute of Technology, 2013
Volumes, pp.: 1 (34pp)
Supervisor(s): Pádhraic Ó'Cuinneagáin
Repository (hard copy): DIT Conservatory of Music & Drama Library
General specialism: Musicology: Performance Studies
Abstract:
Despite extensive and consistent use of the harp throughout his compositions, the English composer Benjamin Britten composed only one solo work for concert harp. 'Suite for Harp Op.83.' is considered a masterpiece of 20th-century harp repertoire. It was composed in 1969 for the eminent Welsh harpist, Osian Ellis.
This dissertation is written from the perspective of the performer and explores specific aspects of this composition. The aim of this dissertation is to gain and academic understanding of 'Suite for Harp Op.83' which it is hoped will enhance performance and interpretation of the work.
Chapter 1 is introductory in nature and explores the background to the work, Britten's relationship with Osian Ellis, and his relationship with the harp as an instrument throughout his compositional career.
Chapter 2 focuses on the stylistic influences in the work and also explores how Britten utilised the harp's unique sound resources (such as glissandi) to project his musical ideas.
Chapter 3 discusses issues which may affect performance and interpretation of this work.
Finally, the Conclusion draws together the author's main observations in relation to performance of this work.
THe Appendices to this dissertation include:
(i) A copy of the score of 'Suite for Harp Op.83', including the accompanying 'Editor's Note' from Osian Ellis.
(ii) A copy of an email recieved from Osian Ellis on 21st April 2013 in response to questions from the author
(iii) A photograph of the author and Osian Ellis, taken in Caernarfon, Wales on 4th April 2013
Thesis submission ID 772