THE VIOLIN WORKS OF RUTH SCHONTHAL: A MUSICAL ANALYSIS AND GUIDE TO PERMORMANCE

Abstract

Ruth Schonthal (1924-2006) achieved a modest level of fame as a composer, pianist, and composition teacher, yet many of her works are not known by a wide audience. Schonthal was one of many twentieth-century composers who characterized their works as neo-romantic, while still maintaining modernist techniques. In this thesis, I will examine Schonthal's entire oeuvre of works for violin and demonstrate how they maintain neo-romantic elements, while simultaneously upholding modernist archetypes. I will examine the following compositions for violin: Sonata in e (1961/62), Ode to a Departing Swan (1964), Improvisations (1994), and finally Little Suite for 2 Violins (2002). I will analyze their form, harmonic structure, the use of gesture, and their melodic elements. The paper also will also incorporate a discussion of pertinent technical violinistic considerations.