Music, School of

 

Date of this Version

8-2011

Document Type

Article

Comments

A THESIS Presented to the Faculty of The Graduate College at the University of Nebraska In Partial Fulfillment of Requirements For the Degree of Master of Music, Major: Music, Under the Supervision of Professor Stanley V. Kleppinger. Lincoln, Nebraska: August, 2011

Copyright 2011 Steven J. Kaup

Abstract

Research concerning cognitive processes for tonic inference is diverse involving approaches from several different perspectives. Outwardly, the ability to infer tonic seems fundamentally simple; yet it cannot be attributed to any single cognitive process, but is multi-faceted, engaging complex elements of the brain. This study will examine past research concerning tonic inference in light of current findings. First I will survey the recent history of experimental research in cognitive functions for memory retention and expectation as they relate to the recognition and learning of musical schemas. Then I will discuss distributional theories associated with the tonal hierarchy of major and minor key profiles and compare them with functional aspects of the intervallic rivalry model and 4/5 opening rule in order to demonstrate how they are not mutually exclusive for the inference of a tonic pitch. This will be followed with suggestions for instructors of music theory and aural skills in light of findings concerning cognitive aspects for inferring tonic.

Advisor: Stanley V. Kleppinger

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