JOURNAL OF MUSIC THEORY

Scope & Guideline

Innovating Insights in Music Scholarship

Introduction

Explore the comprehensive scope of JOURNAL OF MUSIC THEORY through our detailed guidelines, including its aims and scope. Stay updated with trending and emerging topics, and delve into declining areas to understand shifts in academic interest. Our guidelines also showcase highly cited topics, featuring influential research making a significant impact. Additionally, discover the latest published papers and those with high citation counts, offering a snapshot of current scholarly conversations. Use these guidelines to explore JOURNAL OF MUSIC THEORY in depth and align your research initiatives with current academic trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0022-2909
PublisherDUKE UNIV PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2002 to 2024
AbbreviationJ MUSIC THEORY / J. Music Theory
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address905 W MAIN ST, STE 18-B, DURHAM, NC 27701

Aims and Scopes

The JOURNAL OF MUSIC THEORY focuses on a diverse range of topics within music theory, emphasizing analytical methodologies, historical contexts, and the relationship between music and cultural practices. The journal aims to foster a deeper understanding of musical structures, styles, and their implications in various contexts.
  1. Analytical Approaches to Music:
    The journal publishes research employing a variety of analytical techniques to examine musical compositions across genres, highlighting both traditional and contemporary methods.
  2. Historical Contextualization of Music Theory:
    Many articles explore the evolution of music theory through different historical periods, emphasizing how cultural and social factors influence musical practices and theoretical frameworks.
  3. Cross-Genre Studies:
    The journal encourages studies that bridge gaps between genres, including popular music, classical traditions, and non-Western music, fostering a comprehensive understanding of global music theory.
  4. Interdisciplinary Perspectives:
    Research often incorporates insights from related fields such as dance, performance studies, and cultural studies, reflecting the interconnectedness of music with broader artistic and social phenomena.
  5. Pedagogical Insights:
    The journal also addresses music theory education, discussing methodologies and historical practices in teaching music theory across different educational systems.
Recent publications in the JOURNAL OF MUSIC THEORY indicate a clear evolution in the topics of interest, showcasing emerging themes that reflect current trends and the evolving landscape of music theory.
  1. Popular and Vernacular Music Studies:
    There is a growing emphasis on the analysis of popular and vernacular music forms, such as blues, rock, and rap, which signifies an expanding interest in how these genres can inform and challenge traditional music theory.
  2. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    Research that blends music theory with other disciplines, such as dance, cultural studies, and performance practices, is increasingly prominent, suggesting a shift towards a more holistic understanding of music.
  3. Contemporary Music Analysis:
    The journal is seeing more studies focused on contemporary music, including the analysis of modern compositional techniques and the exploration of emergent musical forms, reflecting the current musical landscape.
  4. Global Music Theory Perspectives:
    There is a notable trend towards incorporating global perspectives in music theory, with research exploring non-Western music traditions and their theoretical implications, highlighting a more inclusive approach to music scholarship.
  5. Technological Impact on Music Theory:
    Emerging discussions about the role of technology in music composition and analysis are becoming more common, reflecting the influence of digital tools on contemporary music practices.

Declining or Waning

While the JOURNAL OF MUSIC THEORY has consistently explored many themes, certain areas appear to be declining in frequency or prominence. This shift may reflect changing interests within the field or a move towards more contemporary topics.
  1. Traditional Western Classical Music Theory:
    There seems to be a reduction in focus on traditional Western classical music theory, with fewer papers addressing standard harmonic practices and tonal analysis that have historically dominated the field.
  2. Narrow Focus on Specific Historical Figures:
    Research centered on specific historical composers or figures, such as exclusive studies on individual composers, is less prevalent, as the journal trends towards broader thematic explorations.
  3. Static Theoretical Models:
    The application of static or rigid theoretical models is waning, with a shift towards more dynamic and adaptable frameworks that account for contemporary music practices.

Similar Journals

Problemy Muzykalnoi Nauki-Music Scholarship

Fostering Insight into Music's Socio-Cultural Impact
Publisher: Gnesin Russian Acad MusicISSN: 2782-358XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Welcome to Problemy Muzykalnoi Nauki-Music Scholarship, a leading journal in the field of music scholarship published by the esteemed Gnesin Russian Academy of Music. With an ISSN of 2782-358X and an E-ISSN of 2782-3598, this Open Access journal has been committed to the dissemination of high-quality research since 2009, making scholarly work accessible to a global audience. Covering diverse aspects of music theory, history, and its socio-cultural impacts, Problemy Muzykalnoi Nauki serves as an essential platform for scholars, educators, and practitioners in the arts and humanities, as well as in social sciences related to music education. While its Scopus coverage was discontinued in 2021, the journal remains influential, holding a rank of #48 in the Arts and Humanities category and a percentile of 67th, showcasing its relevance and rigor in the discipline. We invite researchers and students alike to explore the rich contributions made within these pages, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of music in contemporary society.

Musica Oral del Sur

Advancing Scholarship in Oral Musical Practices
Publisher: JUNTA ANDALUCIA, CENTRO DOCUMENTACION MUSICAL ANDALUCIAISSN: 1138-8579Frequency: 1 issue/year

Musica Oral del Sur is a prominent academic journal published by the Junta Andalucía through the Centro Documentación Musical Andalucía. With its ISSN 1138-8579 and E-ISSN 2445-0391, this pioneering publication has championed open access since 1995, providing a vital platform for scholars dedicated to the exploration of traditional and contemporary oral music practices in Southern Spain and beyond. The journal is essential for researchers, professionals, and students interested in musicology, ethnomusicology, and cultural studies, promoting scholarly discourse through a rich assortment of articles, reviews, and field research. Set in the vibrant cultural landscape of Granada, the journal encourages the fusion of theoretical insights with practical implications, making significant contributions to the understanding of oral musical traditions. By fostering accessible academic dialogue, Musica Oral del Sur plays an invaluable role in preserving and highlighting the heritage of Southern musical expressions while addressing contemporary issues in the field.

Zeitschrift der Gesellschaft fur Musiktheorie

Cultivating critical discussions in the realm of music theory.
Publisher: GESELLSCHAFT MUSIKTHEORIEISSN: 1862-6750Frequency: 2 issues/year

Zeitschrift der Gesellschaft für Musiktheorie (ISSN: 1862-6750, E-ISSN: 1862-6742) is a premier open-access journal published by the Gesellschaft Musiktheorie, devoted to advancing the field of music theory. Since its inception in 2003, it has provided a crucial platform for the dissemination of innovative research, theoretical discourse, and critical discussions pertinent to music analysis, pedagogy, and aesthetics. Based in Berlin, Germany, this journal not only showcases the latest in musicological scholarship but also fosters a vibrant community of researchers, practitioners, and educators. With a commitment to accessibility, all published articles are freely available, enhancing the reach and impact of the work within the global music community. This journal is essential reading for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of musical structures and practices, making it an invaluable resource for students, academics, and music professionals alike.

REVUE DE MUSICOLOGIE

Exploring the Harmonies of Musicology
Publisher: EDITIONS TRANSATLANTIQUESISSN: 0035-1601Frequency: 2 issues/year

REVUE DE MUSICOLOGIE is a prominent academic journal dedicated to the diverse field of musicology, published by EDITIONS TRANSATLANTIQUES in France. With an ISSN of 0035-1601, this journal has been a key platform for researchers and scholars since its inception, fostering scholarly discourse and advancing the understanding of music's cultural, theoretical, and historical dimensions. Although it currently holds a Q4 category in Music according to the 2023 quartiles and is ranked #140 in the Scopus Arts and Humanities Music category, REVUE DE MUSICOLOGIE continues to publish valuable insights that contribute to the global musicological landscape. The journal does not offer open access, adhering to standard subscription models. Its primary objective is to provide a rigorous forum for original research articles, reviews, and theoretical discussions, making it an essential resource for academics, professionals, and students in the field of musicology. Located at 50 RUE JOSEPH DE MAISTRE, 75018 PARIS, FRANCE, it promises to remain a vital part of music research through 2023 and beyond.

Musicologist

Unveiling the Rich Tapestry of Musical Discourse
Publisher: Trabzon Univ State ConservatoryISSN: 2618-5652Frequency: 2 issues/year

Musicologist is a premier academic journal dedicated to the exploration and analysis of music theory, history, and practice, published by the esteemed Trabzon University State Conservatory in Turkey. With an ISSN of 2618-5652, this journal has been a vital platform for scholars since its inception in 2019, reflecting a commitment to fostering innovative research in the field of music. Recognized for its quality, the journal currently holds a Q2 ranking in the music category for 2023, placing it within the top segments of its discipline, as evidenced by its position at #72 out of 180 in the Scopus rankings, representing the 60th percentile. Although the journal employs a traditional publication model, it serves as a crucial repository for contemporary musicological discourse, aiming to advance knowledge and understanding within a vibrant academic community. Musicologist is not only a resource for seasoned researchers but also an invaluable tool for students and professionals alike, nurturing a comprehensive appreciation of music as an art form and scholarly pursuit.

MUSIC THEORY SPECTRUM

Redefining Boundaries in Music Theory Research
Publisher: OXFORD UNIV PRESS INCISSN: 0195-6167Frequency: 2 issues/year

MUSIC THEORY SPECTRUM, published by Oxford University Press, serves as a premier journal in the field of music theory, recognized for its significant contributions and scholarship since its inception. With an ISSN of 0195-6167 and E-ISSN 1533-8339, this journal has established a distinguished position within the academic community, boasting an impressive Q1 status in the Music category for 2023 and ranking #17 out of 180 in Scopus for Arts and Humanities, Music, placing it within the 90th percentile. Despite its non-open access format, MUSIC THEORY SPECTRUM offers a wealth of research articles, reviews, and theoretical discussions aimed at both seasoned scholars and students alike. It spans from 1981 until present, fostering critical engagement and advancing understanding within the discipline. Researchers and music theorists will find this journal an invaluable resource for the latest insights and methodologies in music theory.

ACTA MUSICOLOGICA

Fostering Innovative Research in Musicology
Publisher: INT MUSICOLOGICAL SOCISSN: 0001-6241Frequency: 2 issues/year

ACTA MUSICOLOGICA, published by the International Musicological Society, stands as a pivotal journal within the field of Musicology, garnering attention from scholars and practitioners alike. With its ISSN 0001-6241, the journal serves as a vital platform for innovative research and discourse from 2002 to 2013 and again from 2016 to 2024, achieving a Q2 ranking in the 2023 Music category. Reflecting a commitment to excellence, it ranks #105 out of 180 in Arts and Humanities Music according to Scopus, placing it at the 41st percentile among its peers. Although not open access, ACTA MUSICOLOGICA ensures the dissemination of significant musical research, fostering scholarly exchange and exploration. This esteemed publication is essential for researchers, professionals, and students looking to deepen their understanding of musicology and contribute to ongoing academic conversations.

MUSIKFORSCHUNG

Advancing Understanding Through Musical Discourse
Publisher: NEUWERK-BUCH UND MUSIKALIENHANDLUNGISSN: 0027-4801Frequency: 4 issues/year

MUSIKFORSCHUNG is a distinguished journal in the field of music studies, published by NEUWERK-BUCH UND MUSIKALIENHANDLUNG in Germany. With its ISSN 0027-4801, the journal caters to scholars, practitioners, and students interested in the diverse realms of musicology. Although it is currently not an Open Access publication, MUSIKFORSCHUNG plays a vital role in the academic landscape by disseminating research and critical discourse on music from various historical and contemporary perspectives. The journal has established its worth in the academic community, being categorized in the Q4 quartile in Music for 2023 and holding a rank of #169 out of 180 in the Scopus Arts and Humanities Music category, placing it within the 6th percentile. With publication activities spanning from 2002 to 2013 and resuming in 2016 through to 2024, MUSIKFORSCHUNG continues to be a crucial resource for those dedicated to advancing music scholarship. Set in the cultural heart of Kassel, Germany, the journal invites contributions that foster an understanding of music's impact on society and culture.

Musicologica Brunensia

Celebrating the Rich Tapestry of Musical Knowledge
Publisher: MASARYKOVA UNIV, FAC ARTSISSN: 1212-0391Frequency: 2 issues/year

Musicologica Brunensia, an esteemed journal published by Masaryk University, Faculty of Arts, serves as a significant platform for the dissemination of knowledge in the field of musicology. Based in the Czech Republic, this Open Access journal has been facilitating scholarly communication since 2009, allowing unrestricted access to its rich array of research articles. With an ISSN of 1212-0391 and an E-ISSN of 2336-436X, Musicologica Brunensia proudly holds a Q3 ranking in the Music category as of 2023, reflecting its dedication to advancing research in the arts and humanities, particularly music. The journal accepts contributions spanning diverse topics within music studies, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue among researchers, professionals, and students alike. Located at Arne Novaka 1, Brno, 60200, Czech Republic, Musicologica Brunensia is poised to continue its journey of promoting innovative scholarship in musicology until 2024 and beyond, making it a valuable resource for anyone passionate about the field.

MUSIC & LETTERS

Charting New Territories in Music and Literary Studies
Publisher: OXFORD UNIV PRESSISSN: 0027-4224Frequency: 4 issues/year

MUSIC & LETTERS, published by Oxford University Press, is a prominent academic journal that has been at the forefront of musicology and music studies since its inception in 1920. With an ISSN of 0027-4224 and an E-ISSN of 1477-4631, the journal provides a platform for scholarly articles that explore the rich interplay between music and literature, contributing significantly to the understanding of musical context, form, and societal impact. As of 2023, it holds a respectable Q3 rank in Music within its category, positioned at Rank #66 out of 180 in the Scopus Arts and Humanities Music category. Despite not being an Open Access journal, its rigorous peer-review process and commitment to high-quality research make it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal's scope encompasses various genres and historical periods, ensuring a comprehensive examination of music's role in culture and community, thereby enhancing the scholarly discourse within this vibrant field. Based in the United Kingdom, at Great Clarendon St, Oxford OX2 6DP, England, MUSIC & LETTERS continues to inspire and inform the global music scholarly community.