The Cambridge Companion To Jazz

Publisher's description: The vibrant world of jazz may be viewed from many perspectives, from social and cultural history to music analysis, from economics to ethnography. It is challenging and exciting territory, a multi-disciplinary endeavour, drawing in critical perspectives from social and cultural history to music analysis, from economics to ethnography. This volume of nineteen specially commissioned essays provides informed and accessible guidance to the challenge, offering the reader a range of expert views on the character, history and uses of jazz. The book starts by considering what kind of identity jazz has acquired and how, and goes on to discuss the crucial practices that define jazz and to examine some specific moments of historical change and some important issues for jazz study. Finally, it looks at a set of perspectives that illustrate different 'takes' on jazz - ways in which jazz has been valued and represented.

An exploration of rhythm and the richness of musical time from the perspective of performers, composers, analysts, and listeners.

The Cambridge Companion to the Saxophone, first published in 1999, tells the story of the saxophone, its history and technical development from Adolphe Sax (who invented it c. 1840) to the end of the twentieth century. It includes extensive accounts of the instrument's history in jazz, rock and classical music as well as providing practical performance guides. Discussion of the repertoire and soloists from 1850 to the present day includes accessible descriptions of contemporary techniques and trends, and moves into the electronic age with midi wind instruments. There is a discussion of the function of the saxophone in the orchestra, in 'light music' and in rock and pop studios, as well as of the saxophone quartet as an important chamber music medium. The contributors to this volume are some of the finest performers and experts on the saxophone.

An approachable introduction to the drum kit, drummers, and drumming, and the key debates surrounding the instrument and its players.

An overview of women's work in classical and popular music since 1900 as performers, composers, educators and music technologists.

This comprehensive and accessible Companion is the first collection of essays to provide an in-depth overview of Ellington's career.

Explores how Gershwin's iconic music was shaped by American political, intellectual, cultural and business interests as well as technological advances.

Written for students, performers, and music lovers.