First Advisor
Bellman, Jonathan
Document Type
Dissertation
Date Created
12-2017
Abstract
Research on the klezmer revival is wanting both in size and scope. Much of the existing research focuses on extra-musical influences on modern klezmer music with only tangential study of performance practice. This study seeks to inform the body of literature on klezmer performance practice by analyzing and comparing the interpretation of melody and ornamentation in modern performances of Der Heyser Bulgar and Firn di Mekhutonim Aheym, two of famed clarinetist Naftule Brandwein’s (1884–1963) most popular tunes. Analysis of ornamentation in modern performances of the selected recordings reveals a marked shift in modern style when compared to Brandwein’s original recordings. When other musical elements were stripped away leaving the focus on ornamentation, the element that most clearly defines klezmer music from other folk musics, significant inconsistencies were found when comparing to Brandwein to modern performances. However, some of these inconsistencies between more recent recordings and those of Brandwein indicated meaningful agreement between modern performers. These findings of a shared aesthetic among modern performers of klezmer music call into question common beliefs about klezmer music’s past and present and should have a significant impact on discussions of authenticity.
Extent
190 pages
Local Identifiers
Gersten_unco_0161D_10622
Rights Statement
Copyright is held by the author.
Recommended Citation
Gersten, Michael Aaron, "Modern Interpretation of Ornamentation in Naftule Brandwein’s Firn Di Mekhutonim Aheym and Der Heyser Bulgar" (2017). Dissertations. 461.
https://digscholarship.unco.edu/dissertations/461