Stories of Tonality in the Age of François-Joseph Fétis

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Exploring the evolution of musical tonality, this book delves into the writings of François-Joseph Fétis, who played a pivotal role in defining the concept in the 19th century. Thomas Christensen presents tonality as a response to cultural anxiety and the influence of diverse musical traditions. The narrative highlights how French musicians engaged with various repertoires, including folk and microtonal music, while grappling with historical notations. Fétis's theories illuminate the lasting impact of tonality on music discourse, resonating through subsequent musical transformations.