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A piano piece such as Messiaen's "L'Alouette Calandrelle" poses special problems for the pianist who might be unfamiliar with post-tonal repertoire. This study addresses the problem of developing a concept of the piece based on an understanding of its structural details. The analysis of "L'Alouette" is also proposed as a possible model for the analysis of other pieces in the Catalogue d'Oiseaux (1956-58) as well as other works by Messiaen.
One important source for the pianist is Messiaen's own writing. In his treatise Technique de mon Langage Musical (1944), Messiaen discusses his use of rhythm, melody, form, harmony, and modes. The primary goal of this study is to incorporate Messiaen's theoretical ideas into an analysis which will help the pianist to develop a more profound interpretation of Messiaen's music.
In several ways, I have expanded Messiaen's categories to create three large-scale parameters: time, sonority, and pitch. The music was analyzed in relationship to these parameters. The time parameter includes tempo, rhythm, and implied meter, most significant for the "L'Alouette;" sonority includes texture, register, chord spacing, dynamics, articulation, and pedaling; and pitch includes harmony and interval content.
Analysis of pitch and interval content was carried out by using principles of pitch-class set theory. This type of analysis revealed details of continuity, similarity, and variety that would have been difficult or impossible to find otherwise. For example, we find that Messiaen does not use pure modes, but frequently changes them according to his needs.
"L'Alouette" exhibits continuity and variety on three levels: overall (background), middleground, and surface (foreground). A study of these levels reveals the extent to which birdsong in this music is varied while still maintaining its basic identity. It also suggests relationships between different appearances of the same birdsong, and between one birdsong and another.
In "L'Alouette," Messiaen combines inspiration from nature, mastery of compositional technique, and a rich sound palette to create a coherent, organic work. Many structural details can be understood only through analysis, and in gaining such an understanding, the pianist will be better prepared to create an artistic interpretation of the piece.