The Invisible Band: Cultural, Economic, and Societal Issues in Harmoniemusik
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The phenomenon of harmoniemusik is unique in that it represents the richest emperors, the old and new aristocracy, and the poorest street beggars of Vienna all at the same time. Employing a harmoniemusik ensemble was so firmly ingrained in European values that it was perceived as a necessity by members of virtually every social class; why, then, did the genre suddenly go dormant after 1835? Leading authorities on the subject propose that this disappearance was driven by the financial constraints of the Napoleonic Wars, but I am not convinced that one single event can be held responsible for the downfall of an entire genre. Through my examination of iconography, musical materials, economic trends, and written accounts, it becomes clear that harmoniemusik ultimately rendered itself unsustainable due to its meandering identity, the poor treatment of working-class musicians, and the significant decrease in core repertoire after the development of copyright laws.
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Many years ago: an introduction and literature review -- Becoming invisible: the harmoniemusik habitus -- A beautiful piece of goods: the value of harmoniemusik -- A band of chosen men: harmoniemusik in the status-conscious society -- One last look: closing thoughts
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M.M. (Master of Music)