Introduction to Neo-Riemannian Theory: A Survey and a Historical Perspective

The papers collected in this issue represent an emerging species of transformational theory drawn together under the Neo-Riemannian designation. This introductory essay sketches the origins and recent development of neo-Riemannian theory, and positions it with respect to several other genera of music theory, as well as to an evolving post-structuralist critical practice. Along the way, it seeks to situate Hugo Riemann amidst the flurry of activity occuring beneath the banner bearing his name, and to provide comfort to the perplexed observer who, innocently prying apart these covers and peering within, spies the theoretical tradition of A. B. Marx and Oettingen romping merrily with that of Babbitt, Forte, and Morris. Strange fellows indeed! ... or perhaps, upon reflection, not so strange....