ABSTRACT
The chorale phrase shown in Example 3.1d might seem a strange starting point for a chapter on larger-scale structures; despite its brevity it nevertheless demonstrates some of the main features of Schenker’s approach. This is possible because the deepest layers of tonal structure according to Schenkerian theory are extremely simple; it is in the elaborations of these structures that complexity arises. Example 3.1 shows how this phrase elaborates a G major chord both contrapuntally and harmonically. Conceptualizing it from the deepest level to the surface, the tonic chord (a) is elaborated by a third progression (b), to which is added a contrapuntal line in the bass (c). This basic two-part counterpoint is then fleshed out with inner parts to become a fully harmonized chorale phrase (d). This phrase therefore grows out of the tonic chord of G major, both contrapuntally and harmonically.
