Study Of The Three Major Language Factors In Hindemith Musical Theory

Paul Hindemith (1895-1963) was a famous representative neoclassical composer in 20th century and also one of the representatives of modern music combining composer, performer, theorist and educationist rolled in one. His innovative theory works " Craft of Musical Composition (Volume I-III) " had far-reaching impact on western music of 20th century, and also had positive effect on the development of Chinese modern music. This thesis, taking the three theoretic systems of tonality, harmony and melody as research clues and studying the application of the above three theoretical systems in Hindemith’s practical musical works, tries to elucidate innovative features manifested in Hindemith’s works of musical theory and thereby demonstrates the value orientation and interpretation.This thesis takes "Craft of Musical Composition " as research breakthrough point to draw forth a four-level analytical structure of Hindemith innovations of music. For the first level, three major backgrounds (namely historical, musical school and individual creation backgrounds) in which Hindemith’s innovative musical theory formed. On the second level, concrete contents of the above three theoretical systems in the innovative musical theory were elucidated in detail, which paves the way for the analytical demonstration of his musical style in practical works. This thesis lays much emphasis on the third level, where, the contents of the above three theoretical systems are analyzed from three angles, namely inheritance of traditional musical thinking, innovation of modern musical techniques and incarnation of neoclassical musical style, Thereafter, the innovative features of his theory exhibited in his practical musical works are discussed. The fourth level analyzes and summarizes the discussion in the third level and presents a detailed discussion of aesthetical value and interpretation incarnated in Hindemith’s practical musical styles. Finally, the thesis sorts out the enlightening significance of Hindemith musical theory to Chinese musical creation, and other controversial problems lying in musical theory itself.This thesis comes to a conclusion as below:Hindemith’s musical innovations, through the practice of musical theory in his works, exhibits modern musical spirits in the relation with historic exchange, exhibits the aesthetic value and significance of inheriting traditional features, and demonstrates the indispensible position and significance of Hindemth music in 20th century.