Electronic Theses and Dissertations Archive

Date

2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Musical Arts

Department

Music

Committee Chair

Lenny Schranze

Committee Member

Albert Nguyen

Committee Member

Kimberly Patterson

Committee Member

Lenny Schranze

Committee Member

Michelle Vigneau

Abstract

This project reexamines the role of the viola within the classical canon, arguing for its repositioning as a melodic and collaborative instrument rather than a purely supportive inner voice. Analytical and experiential findings demonstrate that the viola’s capacity to modify articulation, timbre, and projection enables it to mediate between contrasting instrumental families such as bowed strings, winds, and percussion. Grounded in performance-based research, this study investigates the viola’s function in non-traditional chamber ensembles, with particular repertoire development through collaboration with composer Michael Kahle, whose works for mixed ensembles—including flute, vibraphone, oboe, piano, and wind ensemble—feature the viola as a primary melodic voice. Specific focus is given to how these works highlight the viola – a gap within the viola canon that has not been pursued by scholarship up to this point in history. By challenging entrenched ensemble hierarchies, antiquated performance practices, and expanding repertoire, this dissertation contends that the viola is not merely an inner voice by necessity, but an adaptable and expressive instrument capable of sustained melodic leadership within contemporary chamber ensembles and their music.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.”

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to ProQuest/Clarivate.

Notes

Open Access

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