Notation—its historical development, limitations, and use by both classical and modern composers—is the focus of this program. Music historian Susan Rankin traces the history of notation from ninth-century neumes to more complex notations incorporating pitch, rhythm, speed, and relative loudness of the music. A violinist demonstrates both the limitations and usefulness of notation in his preparation of a performance of Corelli’s Concerto in D major, Opus 6 No. 4. Contemporary composer Judith Weir explains how adding notations to an original composition provides a precise guide for musicians performing the piece. Produced by the Open University. (25 minutes)