Larry Sitsky’s Century: A response to selected twentieth-century notation, associated piano techniques, and performance possibility
Date of Award
2023
Document Type
Thesis - ECU Access Only
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
Degree Name
Master of Arts (Performing Arts)
School
Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA)
First Supervisor
Geoffrey Lancaster
Second Supervisor
Victoria Rogers
Abstract
In 2016, the Australian composer, virtuoso pianist, and pedagogue Larry Sitsky (b. 1934) completed a three-volume set of 155 graded pieces for pianists entitled Century. The work focuses on certain twentieth-century innovations with regard to notation and associated piano technique(s)—distinctive issues not commonly explored pedagogically. This study addresses specific notational and associated technical challenges in selected pieces from Century. The study also provides performative and pedagogical suggestions derived both from Sitsky himself and from the author. The following notational categories are explored: clusters, feathered notation, and non-pitched notation. This research provides pianists with tools that may enable an understanding of specific twentieth-century notation and of associated pianistic techniques. Furthermore, the study establishes Century as a valuable, although hitherto neglected, pedagogical resource.
DOI
10.25958/5m9q-d324
Access Note
Access to this thesis is embargoed until 18th May 2028.
Recommended Citation
Th'ng, H. (2023). Larry Sitsky’s Century: A response to selected twentieth-century notation, associated piano techniques, and performance possibility. Edith Cowan University. https://doi.org/10.25958/5m9q-d324