This is a readable and imaginative book presenting, with infectious enthusiasm, a sensible simplification of the main processes of classical harmony in the Bach-Schubert period. George Pratt's explanations of concepts such as 'real' and 'substitute' chords. of false distinctions between 'major' and 'minor' and of the simple basis of seemingly complex chromatic harmony enables readers to grasp the principles of harmonic progression, and to see most progressions as a form of 'dominant-powered' movement. He focuses his study on Bach chorales, Mozart piano sonatas, and a Schubert song cycle, thereby providing depth, variety and a realistic sense of a context of 'real music' to his explanations and to the exercises. But he also offers the reader an immediate invitation to apply the same principles to an immense range of musical literature from Monteverdi to Scott Joplin.
Reviews
the book is a valuable addition to Oxford's catalogue * Music Journal *
no music department should be without The Dynamics of Harmony * Vic Gammon, B J Music 14/3 *



Book Information
ISBN 9780198790204
Author George Pratt
Format Paperback
Page Count 162
Imprint Oxford University Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Dimensions(mm) 235mm * 156mm * 9mm