Angelika Elias - an Introduction Through Schenkerian Analysis

Michaela Rejack, The Ohio State University

Heinrich Schenker's theories are arguably the most influential of the nineteenth century. Compared to Einstein among music theorists, Schenker taught dozens of students and his contributions to music, especially the music of the nineteenth century cannot be measured. The scholars who are customarily known in the field of Schenkerian theory, Felix Salzer, Ernst Oster, and Oswald Jonas, are those credited with spreading Schenker's theory throughout the United States. However, evidence casts uncertainty on the relationship of these men to him and introduces an unknown, but critically important student of Schenker.

Angelika Elias studied privately with Schenker for thirty years until his death in 1935. Elias is unheard of by most scholars in the field; nevertheless, her studies with Schenker far exceeded those of the three men previously mentioned, or any of his students for that matter. The prevailing opinion of those who have actually heard of Elias is that she was a copyist, but the actual magnitude of Elias' role is discovered through translating Schenker's personal writings and other primary resources. This paper presents evidence that indicates that Elias was one of Schenker's most dedicated and gifted students, friends, and assistants. Her analyses are proof that she was a gifted Schenkerian theorist. This claim is supported through an examination of three analyses done by Elias, one of a piece composed by Schenker himself.

Elias perished in the Holocaust and her contribution was nearly erased along with her life. But an in-depth study of Elias's work for and relationship with Schenker is crucial to forming a complete picture of the development of Schenker's approach. My work introduces Elias as a significant figure in the history of Schenkerian analysis, and I hope to begin to give her the recognition and credit that is long overdue for her critically important role in the development of the Schenkerian theory.