Per Dahl began his career as a flautist and studied at the University of Trondheim, Norway, where he focused on musicology, philosophy, and psychology. He has worked at the Music Conservatory in Stavanger, Norway, since 1979. Dr Dahl served as the rector of Stavanger University College from 2000 to 2003, during which time the university´s application for full university status was prepared and submitted. He earned his Dr.Philos. at the University of Stavanger, Norway, in 2006. He has been affiliated with the Norwegian Institute of Recorded Sound (1985–2023), wrote music criticism for Stavanger Aftenblad (1989–2001), and has delivered numerous pre-concert lectures. He has authored several books, book chapters, and articles, including Modes of Communication in Stravinsky´s Works (Routledge, 2022) and a chapter on "Music Criticism in Norway” in The Cambridge History of Music Criticism (Cambridge, 2019).
This book provides a performer´s perspective on the communication process, from the composer through notation and interpretation to the performance of classical music. It primarily functions as a textbook for students at music academies and conservatoires, while also being relevant for their teachers, including instrumental instructors in music schools. The topics reflect the dramaturgical process that performers undergo when preparing a new musical work. Through various approaches, the book demonstrates the importance of a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between notation, execution, interpretation, performance, and communication. It centres on the performer´s reading of the notation as the key element in music communication. It is not merely a manual for reading or playing but also places the performer´s interpretation and performance within the broader context of musical life. As an analytical tool, the book divides the signs on the music sheet/score into notes (representing pitches and durations) and unnotes (all other signs and verbal expressions). It offers insights into various options for alternative interpretations in each performance. By providing a theoretical background for a performer´s potential choices, this book will facilitate a quicker and more effective adoption of musicianship among classical music students (and their teachers).
1. Introduction. 2. The Musical Communication Chain. 3. Notation. 4. Interpretation. 5. Communication. Postlude: On the Essence of a Musical Work.
This book provides a performer´s perspective on the communication process, from the composer through notation interpretation to the performance of classical music. It primarily functions as textbook for students at music academies and conservatoires,while also being relevant their teachers,including instrumental instructors in music schools.
"Just Play the Notes! Notation and Interpretation from a Performer´s Perspective is a thought-provoking book—a must-read for everyone interested in performance studies, musical analysis, the ontology and epistemology of music and the concept of the musical work. Dahl dives deep here. Highly recommended.”
Prof. Ståle Kleiberg
Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway
