Association and Interpretation in Recent Chamber Music

This dissertation investigates the interpersonal, communicative dynamic created by the presence of multiple interpreters contributing to a single musical performance in recent chamber music. Although the performance and analysis of contemporary music has been explored by a number of authors in the last thirty years, few have considered this facet, which is unique to chamber music and is particularly relevant to contemporary repertoire. Taking gestural relationships into account adds depth to an analysis and enables new kinds of small- and large-scale associations, which contribute to a greater understanding of form. Using Dora Hanninen's associative organization, this project will illuminate the formal processes in the chamber music of Franco Donatoni. My dialogical gestural perspective will allow the analyst the flexibility to address multiple interpretations and enable creative, experiential listening opportunities.