| The purpose of this study is to recognize the unique character of Rachmaninoff's writing for cello and piano, Op. 19, and to exhibit his exceptional contribution to the cello repertory. This dissertation delves into the substance of the sonata with a musical analysis that includes both structural and harmonic attention and detail.;The first chapter presents an overview of Sergei Rachmaninoff's life, the need for this study, a review of literature on Rachmaninoff, and a methodology for the dissertation. The second, third, fourth, and fifth chapters continues with a musical analysis of the first, second, third, and fourth movements of the sonata. It includes a structural analysis based on the formal, rhythmic, motivic, melodic, and harmonic elements presented throughout the sonata. Several excerpts of music are provided to illustrate the analysis. This dissertation concludes with a summary of the sonata and recommended further studies on Sergei Rachmaninoff and his sonata.;By providing a detailed musical analysis of Rachmaninoff's cello sonata, this writer hopes to provide students, teachers, and performers with a blueprint to understanding his unique musical language, and to recognize Rachmaninoff's undeniable influence on the cello repertory. |
