A masterful and original classical composer as well as a renowned composer of|film scores, Ernst Toch (1887-1964) made a permanent contribution to music in|this important and widely praised book. Based on a series of lectures given|at Harvard in 1944 and first published in 1948, this book is a brilliant|examination of the materials and concepts that are the basic building blocks|of music harmony, melody, counterpoint, and form.|An admirable reconciliation of traditional and modern (mainly 12-tone) trends|in composition, this book shows all types of writing must respond to|psychological wants of the listener and how similar goals may be achieved in|seemingly opposed styles. Illustrating his discussion with 390 musical|examples, Toch not only introduces new ideas and approaches, but examines|many age-old problems with clarity and precision consonance and dissonance,|form versus number, and more. His analysis of the expanding harmonic|universe, the wave line of melody, and the formative influence of movement|are particularly penetrating.|New to this edition are a biological introduction by Toch's grandson,|Lawrence Weschler, a previously unpublished letter from Thomas Mann to Toch|about this book (in English translation), and a complete checklist of Toch's|compositions. Intended for all those who have a minimum understanding of|musical notation and theory, this book will appeal to music lovers, practical|musicians and amateurs, and incipient composers.