On Similarity, Derivation and the Cognition of Musical Structure

Abstract

Following a review of the model of similarity perception, cue abstraction and categorization, developed and empirically tested by Deliège and others over the last decade or so, it is proposed that the notion of perceived derivation may be a key additional element in the cognition of musical structure. Evidence is sought in the re-analysis of recent empirical work and through the identification of structures that appear to challenge the sufficiency of Deliège’s model. The issue is contextualized through a discussion of the concepts of similarity, sameness and salience, utilizing contemporary thinking in cognitive psychology, philosophy and music theory–strands of thought which are drawn together through Ockelford’s ‘zygonic’ theory of music-structural understanding. This leads to the formulation of a new, composite account of how musical structure is processed, in which similarity, salience, derivation,categorization and schematization are shown to function in an integrated way.