A style discussion of Jeanne Zaidel-Rudolph’s Pendulum for Piano and Orchestra and a comprehensive catalogue of her orchestral, chamber and piano compositions

Abstract

Jeanne Zaidel-Rudolph is a South African composer and pianist with a proven track record. Her numerous achievements and most importantly her role in and influence on South African art and indigenous African music is hugely significant. Over the years, she has been recognised both locally and internationally for her major contribution in the awarding of numerous prizes, decorations, academic and honorary positions, as well as the granting of music commissions; most notably is an award given to her by former South African President, Thabo Mbeki, “for her outstanding contribution as composer, pianist and teacher in the development of music in South Africa and internationally”. Her original works have been performed both locally and abroad. Her compositional style features diverse musical elements and various compositional devices from the post-tonal era; some of which uniquely set her apart from her contemporaries and establish her as a renowned composer in South Africa. This study includes a brief biography of Zaidel-Rudolph, as well as a catalogue of the composer’s orchestral, chamber and piano compositions. This research explores the background to the chosen works and the inspiration behind the creation of the selected work. Furthermore, the compositional techniques employed by the composer, as well as the distinguishing features of her compositional style are also discussed. Additionally, this study aims to analyse the selected piece with reference to harmonic devices and vertical techniques, melody, rhythm, form structure, and texture. The chosen piece is comprehensively discussed with emphasis on the above parameters. Further research could focus on a style discussion of Zaidel-Rudolph’s more recent compositions in other genres and for different instrumental ensembles.