What's a good book or set of books for quick reference on classical composition and theory? i took theory and composition classes in college, but have forgotten a frightening amount--and i find myself referencing scores instead of a good reference book to figure out how to do something. this is probably the most back-ass-wards way of doing it, so, punters and pontificators, anything?
― Jubalique die Zitronen, Tuesday, 15 April 2008 15:13 (sixteen years ago) link
Walter Piston's Harmony is a classic. The reference book I find handiest though is Samuel Adler's Orchestration, although that's obviously for a different purpose. Sometimes the lessons at musictheory.net can be a nice refresher too.
― St3ve Go1db3rg, Tuesday, 15 April 2008 16:20 (sixteen years ago) link
Oh "harmony"! i've not seen that in ages, i think i have that somewhere, but i may order adler's orchestration. what i need refresher on is particular stylistic issues with later romantic/impressionist composers, maybe "orchestration"'ll be more helpful than "harmony."
thanks so much!
― Jubalique die Zitronen, Tuesday, 15 April 2008 19:06 (sixteen years ago) link