Approaching Piazzolla's music

Abstract: The aim of this degree project is to enhance the understanding of Astor Piazzolla’s musical style. As a method, a comparative approach and pastiche preparation is chosen. Form analyses are mainly the basis of a style study, which is limited to five of Piazzolla’s compositions. Consequently, the study results in significant style elements that is realised and contextualised in new compositions. The final chapter discusses the importance of valuing a pastiche in relation to the style idiom. It points out that a good pastiche should present a balanced amount of style elements. Additionally, the chapter discusses the relation between analysis and composition, and it points out that an interaction between these two activities enables a deeper understanding of a certain style.