Instruments In The History Of Western Music

Chronologically arranged, it studies instruments of some 25,000 years from the clay drums of the stone age to electronic synthesizers.

Chronologically arranged, it studies instruments of some 25,000 years from the clay drums of the stone age to electronic synthesizers.

A reference guide to musical instruments.

This is an account of the development of Western music, from its beginnings in the temples of Mesopotamia to the avant-garde electronic music of today, from Bach to Boulez. As he surveys the rich panorama of musical history the author discusses: the significant composers in each period--their lives, major works, techniques of composition, musical environment, and the social and political factors that affected them; the evolution of musical form--the plainchant or plainsong, harmony, the madrigal, sonata, symphony, concerto, and opera, to name a few; the evolution of musical instruments--the psaltery and dulcimer as prototypes of the harpsichord and the piano, the flute, violin, organ, trumpet, bagpipe, organ, and others.

An abridged version of a text which presents the history of music in the western world. The text emphasizes the most important styles, composers and works. Features include: timelines; maps; anthologies; recordings; and insights which offer sidelights on topics ranging from Europe's National beginnings, to the Theremin and Ondes Martenot. The text is intended for music students, and is written in a clear and accessible style.

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