History of Musical Instruments and Music-making: A Complete History of Musical Forms and the Orchestra - Softcover

Inhaltsangabe

The art of music-making has existed for thousands of years, probably beginning with the voice and then proceeding to simple rhythmic drumming---hitting a log with a stick or banging a rock with a club---and blowing a blade of grass or a conch shell. Since these humble beginnings there has been an explosion in instrument-making, culminating in a seemingly endless variety of forms throughout the world.

The History of Musical Instruments and Music-Making poses the questions "What is music?" and "What is a musical instrument?" Each of the principal ancient civilizations is investigated in turn---Egypt, Israel, Greece, Rome, India, South-east Asia, China, Japan and Korea---with information about key developments and musical traditions. The text focuses on different methods of music-making, explaining the tonal quality of single and double reeds, the drum skins, the different types of keyboard mechanisms, and how the string and bow create sound. The instruments were adapted and modified as the orchestra evolved---from the medieval consort, through Baroque and classical ensembles to the large symphony orchestra.

Historically, great instruments have been played in public by great performers, and this book includes information about the most famous players and their instruments, as well as examining the role of the composer and the conductor, and providing a guide to the best-known orchestras and concert halls around the world. The book not only charts the history of the orchestra but also looks at the history of all the major musical movements and forms, including folk music, brass and military bands, country music, jazz, big bands, and popular music.

Beautifully illustra ted with over 250 full-color photographs, paintings and illustrations, The History of Musical Instruments and Music-Making provides an authoritative history of musical forms and the orchestra, making this an indispensable reference for music lovers everywhere.

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