The Historical Performance of Music: An Introduction

Description

This volume offers an up-to-date overview of historical performance, surveying the various current issues (such as the influence of recording) and suggesting possible future developments. Its core comprises discussion of the period performer's myriad primary source materials and their interpretation, the various aspects of style and general technique that combine to make up a well-grounded, period interpretation, and a survey of performance conditions and practices, focusing on the period c. 1700-c. 1900. Many of the principles outlined are illustrated in case studies of works by Bach, Mozart, Berlioz and Brahms.

' ... offers a wealth of wisdom ... I hope it may open windows in many minds.' The Musical Times 'It introduces ideas, concerns and approaches which will be new to many readers and practitioners, and it wil without doubt be invaluable to students.' Early Music Today '... offer many stimulating asides and tantalising titbits, particularly when dealing with such controversial areas as the links between rhetorical theory and music; tast; rhythmic freedom; ornamentation and improvisation. Throughout ... their arguments are short, and sharp enough to whet the appetite, and he thirsty reader will surely want to go in search of more.' BBC Music Magazine