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Music: Program Notes

Introduction to Music Sources

Music Program Notes

Sources for program notes can be found in places such as:

  • Biographies of composers
  • Music dictionaries and encyclopedias
  • Prefaces of scores
  • CD liner notes

Major orchestras and choral societies will have program notes links on their websites.  Search Google for 'program notes' and the name of the piece.  Be aware that many program notes are copyright protected.  Only cite the notes where the author has specifically given permission for reproduction.

Websites

Mobile Symphony Orchestra
    Click on Concerts & Tickets
    Scroll down to Program Book
    Click on the link for the MSO current Season Program Book

San Francisco Symphony Program Notes

Writing Concert Program Notes:  A Guide for UWW Students by Prof. J. Michael Allsen

Program Notes by Linda Mack
 

Guidelines for Writing Program Notes

Length:  The length can vary depending on the number of pieces being performed, the length of the program, available space in the printed program, budget, and audience.  A single work, such as a symphony or sonata might range from 250-350 words.  For a longer program with multiple works, a range of 700-1,000 words may be more appropriate.

Content:  The goal is to increase the audience's understanding and enjoyment of the music preformed.  Program notes should be well researched.  Consult standard reference works to provide a clear summary of the piece.  Include some interesting items, such as a dedication or review to show how the work was received at the piece's premiere.  Consider the audience and their level of understanding.  For example, for a very young audience avoid advanced theoretical analysis and technical language.

Include                                                                            Avoid
Circumstances of composition                             Personal anecdotes
First performance                                                    Criticism
Historical context                                                      Footnotes and bibliography
Musical style                                                             Over-emoting
Scoring                                                                      Musical examples
Things to listen for                                                  Technical terminology

Bibliography

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Wingell, Richard.  "Program Notes." in Writing About Music:  An Introductory Guide, 105-111. 4th ed.  Upper Saddle River, N.J. : Pearson Prentice Hall, 2009.  Marx Library Bookstacks ML 3797 .W54 2009.

Click on the Call Number to see the catalog record and holdings information.