The content of this dissertation is concentrated on No.2, No.3, No.4, No.10, No.11 and No.12 of “Twelve Virtuoso Studies, Op.46” by Edward MacDowell. There are two principal ways to discuss these five etudes. The first thing is proving how different composing background influenced the composer’s thinking. The second thing is focus on how to practice these etudes by using different techniques, which support performers having excellent performances. However, these two main ideas are the researching direction of this dissertation.

To obtain the complete understanding about these six etudes, it refers to the biography of the composer, Edward MacDowell at first in the dissertation. After we establish the basic foundation from this valuable knowledge, we can gain specific analysis on these etudes from clear and correct point of view.

In the chapter three and four of the dissertation, the author displays different styles of etudes during the same period that MacDowell composed “Twelve Virtuoso Studies, Op.46” and also analysis the details which including the main structure, unique forms and specific chords in these six etudes. MacDowell likes to use the simple binary form or third form to substitute for complex forms. One of his unique styles is having a Coda before the end of the piece and emphasizing the tonic structure again. Some parts of his composed are like traditional styles but some parts are not. Although it is not a big revolution in music field, he creates new style on composing etudes.

In the last part of the dissertation, it mentions that we can use different methods to improve our performances by finding various practicing ways. Because MacDowell is an excellent pianist, he likes to add different elements to get challenges for difficult technique. There are lots of repeating notes, fast motions and crossing hands…ext. in his music. However, it is good for students to train their performing technique.

MacDowell, an amazing composer and a pianist, makes new achievement in the music field. His contribution is not only creating new music style but also giving performers more challenges to overcome technical things. However, this detailed dissertation is certain researching documents for performers and scholars to understand this great American composer, Edward MacDowell.

Programs：

D. Scarlatti（1685-1757）：Sonata in D major, K.96（L.465）

D. Scarlatti（1685-1757）：Sonata in a minor, K.54（L.241）

L. van Beethoven（1770-1827）：Piano Sonata no.24 in F# Major,Op.78

E. MacDowell（1860-1908）：Twelve Virtuoso Studies, Op.46

No.2 Moto Perpetuo

No.3 Wild Chase

No.4 Improvisation

No.10 March Wind

No.11 Impromptu

No.12 Polonaise

N. Medtner（1880-1951）：Four Tales, Op.26 no.1,3

F. Mendelsson（1809-1847）：Variations serieuses, Op.54