The main purpose of this dissertation is to explore and analyze Villa-Lobos’ piano work Prolo de bebe. Chapter 2 offers a general history of Villa-Lobos’ life and includes a general discussion of the background of his artistic and creative works. In Chapter 3, the music and culture of Brazil is discussed, emphasizing the cultural and musical aspects that had a strong influence on Villa-Lobos. Because Villa-Lobos was one of the first musicians to explore the folk music of Brazil, his efforts in this domain are also noted. In Chapter 4, a theoretical analysis is presented and separated into 3 sections:

• analysis of form

• harmony and tonal relationships

• melody and rhythm

Chapter 5, which forms the main focus of this dissertation, is concerned with details of performance and interpretation. In this chapter, each of the 8 pieces is viewed individually and problems of performance are discussed according to the demands of the piece. Aspects of interpretation include technical considerations, dynamics, pedaling, tone color, articulation, rhythm and artistic considerations.

Program:

D. Scarlatti（1685-1757）: Piano Sonatas, K. 110、K. 208、K.119、K. 146

L. v. Beethoven（1770-1827）: Piano Sonata, Op. 109 in E Major

C. A. Debussy（1862-1918）: Images Vol. I, Reflets dans l’Eau

F. Chopin（1810-1849）: Barcarolle, Op. 60

H. Villa-Lobos（1887-1959）: Prole do bebé, Vol. I