Studies on the origin of harmonic tonality

Carl Dahlhaus, a leading musicologist of the postwar era, has left an indelible mark on the field, as reflected in this newly translated work on tonality's development. Demonstrating his mastery of harmony theory, Dahlhaus reviews key concepts and theories from influential figures such as Rameau, Sechter, Ftis, Riemann, and Schenker. He contrasts chordal composition with the lesser-known intervallic composition, which underpinned polyphonic music during the late Middle Ages and Renaissance. Through numerous quotations from theoretical treatises, he illustrates how early music evolved not through chord progressions but through simple interval progressions. Dahlhaus explores pivotal questions regarding the transformation from intervallic to chordal composition and from modality to tonality. His analyses of works by Josquin, Cara, Tromboncino, and Monteverdi shed light on these transitions. With bold speculations and comprehensive summaries, Dahlhaus showcases his command over eight centuries of music and writings, alongside a profound understanding of European history and culture. This significant work, originally published in 1990, is now available through the Princeton Legacy Library, which aims to enhance access to the scholarly heritage of Princeton University Press's extensive backlist.