Journal of Art and Civilization of the Orient

Melik-Aslanian’s Approach to Utilizing the Potential of Music Mode for Establishing Cohesion in “Dance Variations on an Armenian Theme”

https://doi.org/10.22034/jaco.2025.515369.1466
Volume 13, Issue 49
Autumn 2025
Pages 64-73
Journal of Art and Civilization of the Orient

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Hossein Ghanbariahmadabad

Assistant Professor, Music Department, College of Fine Arts, University of Tehran, Iran.

Abstract
The application of folk music modes in contemporary composition is a significant and appealing topic for many researchers and composers, with Melik-Aslanian’s work serving as a key point of interest. Understanding how he establishes cohesion in his pieces and explores the potential of modes, formal issues, and the development of ideas derived from folk music is a compelling area of study. By examining his works, we can gain valuable insights that can inform our compositions and research. The research question is as follows: First, how and what harmonic or melodic aspects of the folk mode does Aslanian utilize in “Dance Variations”?  Secondly, what harmonic factors make the piece coherent? This paper first summarizes the characteristics derived from folk modes in composition based on library resources. Next, each variation and its harmonic and melodic ideas are clarified. Finally, this paper organizes the melodic materials to facilitate an understanding of the relationships between the sections. The analysis results of this piece show that the composer utilizes the intervallic potential of the Armenian theme in the Lydian mode and shapes the vertical structure of chords, chordal pedals, and contrapuntal lines based on the (016) cell, derived from the Lydian mode. Emphasis on a consistent intervallic structure throughout the piece creates overall cohesion in the work.

Keywords

Aslanian
Composition
Harmony
Lydian
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