The “Symbiotic Process” Between Analysis and Performance and the Interlocution Between Performer and Theorist in the Study of J. S. Bach’s Allemande for Keyboard from Partita n. 5, BWV 829 in G major

Abstract

This paper offers a contribution to analysis and performance studies and highlights the potential of Schenkerian analysis to address performance issues. Based on Swinkin’s proposal (2016), it illustrates how Schenker’s analytical approachtrades in expressive metaphors and also explores the mutuality between analysis and musical performance. It answers various challenges that have been leveled by numerous performance/analysis scholars: the enhancement of the shapings adopted by performers (recordings), as well as the possibility of a mutual contribution between theorist and performer (Schmalfeldt 1985; Lester 1995; Swinkin 2016). The object of this study is

Allemande

from J. S. Bach’s

Partita n. 5

, BWV 829 in G Major (1731); it was selected because of its interpretive challenges. The voice-leading analysis presented here will be placed in a wide analytical context, complemented by the observation of metric events in addition to the analysis of expressive elements from recordings (dynamics, grouping and agogic) supported by the employment of the Sonic Visualiser software. The software applied to the recordings from renowned pianists (András Schiff, Murray Perahia, and Claudio Arrau) will generate graphs of dynamic variations and representation of agogic. These aspects are approached in interaction with voice-leading processes as they are considered an important foundation of analytical representation of the musical structure. The aim is to illustrate how the interactions take place in a “symbiotic process” between analysis and performance. This process also contributes to strengthening the roles of performer and musical analysis.  Results show how notions arising from Schenker's theory and the inclusion of interpretive ambiguities, bothstructural and expressive - (differences in strategies adopted by performers) - can enrich of a performer´s interpretive development.