Armenian music of today is largely influenced by Armenian folk music. Composers such as Sayat Nova and Gomidas Vartabed have left behind numerous tunes that are still sung today by Armenians whether in Armenia or the Armenian diaspora. This thesis comparatively analyzed piano arrangements of Armenian folk tunes by Armenian composers. The aim of this thesis is bifold: to find elements of piano arrangements that are commonly used by different composers and to introduce the riches of Armenian music to the Czech and International music communities. The comparative analyses revealed the existence of elements such as orchestral simulations, melodic and rhythmic variations, representations, composing introductions, and different accompaniment styles among the arragements of the same folk tunes by different composers or different folk tunes by the same composer at different levels of difficulty. Hence, the first aim of this thesis was verified, with the hopes of the second aim also being met and Armenian music being spread to all musical circles around the world. KEYWORDS Armenian music, folk tunes, arrangements, analysis, composers

Paul Schoenfield’s Slovakian Children’s Songs for flute and piano is a unique work in the flute repertoire, incorporating Slovakian folk quotes from Béla Bartók’s For Children (Volume II, Based on Slovakian Folk Tunes) with layers of Slovakian folk elements used in the overall texture. The primary objective of this dissertation is to expand the limited resources available to flutists regarding Slovakian Children’s Songs. Detailed comparative analysis will demonstrate both Paul Schoenfield’s use of Slovakian folk tunes in the piece and his compositional style. In addition, this dissertation will develop the performer’s understanding of the work through background information, comparative analysis, and interviews to encourage insightful and informed performance. The dissertation’s purpose will be achieved through examining 1) the life, historical, and musical background of Paul Schoenfield and Slovakian Children’s Songs, as well that of Béla Bartók and For Children, and 2) how Schoenfield quotes and arranges Bartók’s For Children by providing a comparative analysis. Interviews with both the composer and Carol Wincenc will be included in the dissertation along with performance suggestions received directly from Carol Wincenc in the appendix.

Heejo Kim (1920-2001) is one of the most prominent Korean composers of the twentieth century. He is primarily known for his works that incorporate aspects of traditional Korean music. However, at the same time, his efforts in choral arrangements, especially of Korean folk tunes are highly acclaimed by professional choirs and conductors. The purpose of this study is to provide performance guidance on Heejo Kim's choral work, Bat-no-rae, by presenting his biographical background, discussing the use of traditional Korean rhythmic patterns (Jangdan) and modes, and the appropriate application of traditional ornamentations.