Synopses & Reviews
The Cambridge Music Guide is for all those who love music and wish to know more about its colorful history, development and theory. Superbly illustrated, the Guide is a comprehensive tour of every aspect of the musical world, expertly edited by Stanley Sadie, editor of the New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians. The guide explains all the elements of musical notation, of pitch and harmony, of different musical genres. The development of musical instruments and the modern orchestra is charted through the ages, and the roots of music itself are traced--from Medieval chant to modern jazz solos and the electric wizardry of today's composers. With individual studies of all major composers and a unique series of "listening guides" to important works through the ages, The Cambridge Music Guide serves as a comprehensive introduction for all those studying, playing or simply seeking more enjoyment from the world of music.
Review
"Stanley Sadie and Alison Latham agree that art should be viewed within a larger social context, and they bring this perspective to The Cambridge Music Guide, available for the first time in the US. Intended as an expansive reference to Western music for the novice (with sophisticated elements for the aficionadl), the book introduces the fundamental elements of music, followed by its history from the sixth century...to Bach to the Boss." Publishers Weekly"Stanley Sadie and his colleagues responsible for this publication have given us a fine and informative general music history overview. What distinguishes this work from many other music history texts is the special emphasis that Stanley Sadie has made in puttin this music information into coherent historical contexts. ...a splendid introductory course for the newcomer as well as a fine general reference source for more knowledgeable readers. This is a most welcome volume." Jeffrey Nussbaum, The Historic Brass Society
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. [531]-533) and index.