Music in Western Civilization

MUSIC IN WESTERN CIVILIZATION by Wright and Simms places music in the context of the politics and personalities, and the arts and humanities of each period of Western intellectual history. The importance of cultural context is evidenced by chapters entitled "Richard Strauss in Berlin," "Johann Sebastian Bach: Vocal Music in Leipzig," and "Music in Medieval Paris: Polyphony at Notre Dame." The writing is crystal clear, and student comprehension is increased by means of boldface Key Terms and by concise chapter summaries. The eighty-three brief chapters allow instructors to pick and choose which material they wish to emphasize, and it is available in three formats: comprehensive edition, 2 volumes, and 3 volumes. Moreover, the text is as comprehensive as it is clear. All major composers, styles, and genres are covered. 224 pieces are discussed, with additional commentary and complete musical scores in an accompanying anthology prepared by Professor Timothy Roden. The anthology is available in a two-as well as a three volume set to meet the needs of various course structures. Recordings of all 224 pieces are available on the 13 CDs, and student exercises and analysis questions are found in a companion Student Workbook. In sum, the text of Wright and Simms will revolutionize the teaching of music history because it situates music in its cultural context, yet does so in a way that is clear and easy to understand.