Music Notation and Terminology

Author(s)

• Karl Wilson Gehrkens

Until relatively recently, music students at all levels of study—from the conservatories to public schools—had few resources available for the formal study of musical notation and terminology in the classroom. In fact, it was not until 1914, when Professor Karl Gehrkens at the Oberlin School of Music published this compilation of class notes and sources he collected over the years, that a uniform text became available for schools and universities everywhere. Since the publication of this monumental work, similar textbooks have emerged, but Dr. Gehrkens’ contribution remains thoroughly worthwhile—particularly since it provides not just the definitions of musical terms, but also the historical context of those terms. This inclusion enables students of music to better understand and remember those terms, and provides a platform from which Gehrkens argues for a uniform usage of musical terminology. Also included in the book are numerous musical excerpts, pictures, and actual analyses of musical examples.

Recommended for the musically curious as well as the serious musical student. (Summary by Susan)

1. 00- Preface
2. 01- Some Principles of Correct Notation
3. 02- Symbols of Music Defined
4. 03- Symbols of Music Defined (continued)
5. 04- Abbreviations, Signs, etc.
6. 05- Abbreviations, Signs, etc. (continued)
7. 06- Embellishments
8. 07- Scales
9. 08- Scales (continued)
10. 09- Auxillary Words and Endings
11. 10- Measure
12. 11- Tempo
13. 12- Tempo (continued)
14. 13- Dynamics
15. 14- Terms Relating to Forms and Styles
16. 15- Terms Relating to Forms and Styles (continued)
17. 16- Terms Relating to Vocal Music
18. 17- Rhythm, Melody, Harmony and Intervals
19. 18- Chords, Cadences, etc.
20. 19- Miscellaneous Terms
21. 20- Miscellaneous Terms (continued)
22. 21- Appendix A- The History of Music Notation
23. 22- Appendix B- Musical Instruments
24. 23- Appendix C- Acoustics
25. 24- Appendix D- Terminology Reform
26. 25- Appendix E- Analysis of Beethoven Sonata, Op. 31, No. 3
27. 26- Pronouncing Index