Sonata Forms (Revised Edition) Summary and Reviews

Sonata Forms (Revised Edition)
by Charles Rosen

Sonata Forms (Revised Edition)
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Book Summary Information

Author: Charles Rosen
Edition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 1988-08-17
ISBN: 0393302199
Number of pages: 432
Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company

Book Reviews of Sonata Forms (Revised Edition)

Book Review: Essential Music Theory: Graduate Level Nuts and Bolts
Summary: 5 Stars

First - a word of caution - the reader must have a working knowledge of music theory (particularly form & harmonic analysis) to understand this book. Even with that, this book is a commitment. Its not something one would read only a part of - it is to be taken as a whole. It will require the reader to analyze the music with the author to come to terms with the material.

That being said, this book is well worth reading, given you have the time to read passages again and analyze the musical examples. It provides an excellent analysis of what sonata form is in the Classic Period, with all the details the average musician is not aware of. Rosen uncovers patterns not often discussed when talking about sonata form. This is an excellent history of its development, and in depth analysis of its parts.

I've heard the complaint about Rosen - he is sometimes too harsh in his judgment of others. (Perhaps he is intolerant of stupidity?) However, with respect to clarity, he outclasses most music scholars (at least in writing.) Unlike some scholars, he defines start and end points with measure numbers so the reader can clearly see what is being discussed. He provides definitions for the terms he uses so that there will be little question of what it is he is talking about. Overall, he avoids showy, elitist vocabulary in his text. I find his writing a breath of fresh air.

Understanding the material in this book will arm the reader with a deep understanding of the sonata form, down to is nuts and bolts. Well worth reading, but "Sonata Forms" is a huge commitment of time and energy to understand!

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