Music in the Natural-Tone System

Josip Slavenski, Microtonal Folklore and Electroacoustic Music

Abstract

In this paper I present my research on the only microtonal piece by Čakovec-born, Belgrade-based composer Josip Slavenski (1896–1955), Music in the Natural-Tone System (1937). I begin with Slavenski’s place in Yugoslav/Serbian music history, and Slavenski’s research in the domain of microtonal music through musical folklore, and subsequent creation of the “natural tone system”. I continue with the analysis of Music in the Natural-Tone System, as Slavenski’s experimental piece in this domain, concluding the analysis with a possible reception, since this piece was never performed. In conclusion, I connect this piece with the other Slavenski’s works composed during the 1930s, which form a legacy he left to younger generation of composers based in Belgrade.