In actual practice a cursory macroanalysis should be performed before
undertaking the three analytical levels in order. This helps place the more
detailed observations in the proper frame of reference. Microanalysis includes
detailed melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic analysis; form and texture at the
smallest level; and small details of orchestration and timbre. The descriptions
of the Beethoven and Wagner examples in the preceding chapter are examples of microanalysis. Middle-analysis deals with relationships between phrases and other medium-sized units and virtually anything that falls into neither the very large nor the very small categories.