Negative Harmony: Experiments with the Polarity in Music

• Main Author: Brister, Michael
• Format: Others
• Published: Digital Commons @ East Tennessee State University 2019
• Subjects: Composition; Music Theory
• Online Access: https://dc.etsu.edu/honors/507; https://dc.etsu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1614&context=honors

I set out to experiment and justify the use of a new theory called Negative Harmony in 21st century music. Negative Harmony is a musical avenue from which composers can glean new tones within traditional music theory rules. I took inspiration from the current leading authority on the topic, Jacob Collier, as well as older scholars from the 20th century, such as Ernst Levy and George Rochberg. I conducted research on the theory by finding its relation to major and minor chords, and how these mirrored chords worked from a theory standpoint. I then composed two original works, one piano piece and one piece for SATB choir and piano. I aimed to find the best balance between the unfamiliar negative chords and the familiar positive chords. I then looked to justify the use of this theory through the writings of scholars and modern music listeners and casual music makers.