Metamorphoses
Problem-Solving Strategies in Musical Structure
Published on 18. February 2026
Book
Hardback
260 pages
978-3-631-93777-8 (ISBN)
Description
In a striking theoretical re-positioning, Barbara Barry proposes that problem-solving, as in scientific theory, asks strategic questions of "how" and "why" important musical compositions work the way they do. She focuses on three criteria of investigation: identity, implementation and intrusion, in order to define normative frameworks of style and form. These normative constructs provide frames of reference by which to evaluate powerful innovation in music, and in larger contexts of art, literature and the history of ideas.
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In a striking theoretical re-positioning, the author proposes that problem-solving, as in scientific theory, asks strategic questions of "how" and "why" important musical compositions work the way they do. She focuses on three criteria of investigation: identity, implementation and intrusion, in order to define normative frameworks of style and form. These normative constructs provide frames of reference by which to evaluate powerful innovation in music, and in larger contexts of art, literature and the history of ideas.