Concise History of Western Music (Fifth Edition)
This book, “Concise History of Western Music (Fifth Edition),” by Barbara Russano Hanning, is a well-regarded introduction to the evolution of Western music. It offers a manageable overview of the forces that shaped music, covering a wide range of periods from the Middle Ages to the present.
Overview
“Concise History of Western Music (Fifth Edition)” is a comprehensive and accessible textbook designed to introduce students to the rich and complex history of Western music. Authored by Barbara Russano Hanning, this book stands out for its clear and engaging writing style, making it a popular choice for students seeking a manageable introduction to the subject. The book’s key strength lies in its ability to provide a concise yet thorough overview of the significant forces that shaped Western music throughout history.
The fifth edition of “Concise History of Western Music” builds upon the foundation laid by previous editions, incorporating new insights and updates to reflect the latest scholarship in the field. It maintains a focus on a core repertoire of 109 characteristic works spanning from the Middle Ages to the present, offering students a valuable framework for understanding the evolution of musical styles and techniques. Hanning’s approach is to provide not just a chronological account of musical events but also to delve into the cultural and historical contexts that influenced the creation and reception of music.
The book’s concise format makes it a manageable read for students, while its depth and breadth of coverage ensure that it provides a solid foundation for further study. Its accessibility and clear explanations make it suitable for a wide range of students, from those with limited musical background to those pursuing advanced studies in music history.
Author and Publisher
The author of “Concise History of Western Music (Fifth Edition)” is Barbara Russano Hanning, a distinguished scholar and educator in the field of music history. Hanning’s expertise and passion for the subject are evident throughout the book, which reflects her deep understanding of the complexities and nuances of Western musical traditions. Her engaging writing style and clear explanations make the book accessible to a wide audience, while her insightful observations and interpretations provide valuable insights for both students and seasoned music enthusiasts.
The book is published by W. W. Norton & Company, a reputable publishing house known for its high-quality academic texts and its commitment to excellence in scholarship. Norton has a long history of publishing influential works in the humanities and social sciences, and its commitment to quality is reflected in the production of “Concise History of Western Music (Fifth Edition).” The book’s meticulous editing, clear typography, and comprehensive index contribute to its overall value as a valuable resource for students and researchers.
Key Features
“Concise History of Western Music (Fifth Edition)” stands out for its unique combination of accessibility and depth. Hanning’s approach is characterized by a focus on key musical works, providing students with a manageable framework for understanding the evolution of Western music. She masterfully weaves together historical context, cultural influences, and musical analysis, offering a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the subject. The book’s concise and focused style makes it an ideal choice for students seeking a clear and engaging introduction to the history of Western music.
One of the key strengths of the book is its emphasis on a carefully curated repertoire of 109 characteristic works. This selection provides a representative overview of the major periods and movements in Western music history, offering students a tangible and memorable framework for understanding the evolution of musical styles and techniques. The book’s clear and engaging writing style, combined with its focus on key works, makes it an effective and accessible learning tool for students at all levels.
Content Coverage
The fifth edition of “Concise History of Western Music” provides a comprehensive overview of Western music history, spanning from the ancient world to the present day. The book’s structure is chronological, allowing readers to trace the development of musical styles, techniques, and cultural contexts over time. Each chapter delves into a specific period or movement, exploring its unique characteristics, key composers, and influential works.
The book’s content coverage includes a wide range of topics, from the ancient Greek and Roman periods to the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and 20th-century eras. Hanning’s exploration extends to various musical genres, including vocal music, instrumental music, opera, and symphony. The book also addresses important cultural and social factors that shaped the evolution of Western music, providing a nuanced understanding of the historical, political, and philosophical influences that shaped musical expression.
Target Audience
The fifth edition of “Concise History of Western Music” is specifically designed for students taking introductory courses in music history. The book’s concise and accessible writing style, combined with its clear organization and engaging presentation of musical concepts, makes it an ideal resource for undergraduate students who are new to the subject. Hanning’s approach emphasizes clarity and understanding, providing students with a solid foundation in the fundamentals of Western music history.
However, the book’s appeal extends beyond the classroom. Its comprehensiveness and engaging narrative make it suitable for anyone interested in gaining a deeper appreciation of Western music’s rich history and diverse cultural contexts. Whether you’re a casual music enthusiast or a seasoned musician, “Concise History of Western Music” offers valuable insights into the evolution of Western musical traditions, from ancient times to the present.
Editions and Updates
The fifth edition of “Concise History of Western Music” represents a significant update to the original text, reflecting the latest scholarship and incorporating new insights into the study of Western music history. The book has undergone a thorough revision, incorporating new research and perspectives on various musical periods and genres. This edition benefits from the extensive experience and expertise of Barbara Russano Hanning, ensuring a comprehensive and up-to-date exploration of the subject.
In addition to the updated content, the fifth edition features a more robust media package. This update aligns the text with the Eighth Edition of the Norton Anthology of Western Music, providing students with access to a wider range of musical examples and resources. These multimedia elements enhance the learning experience, offering students a more immersive and engaging way to explore the history of Western music. The fifth edition is a testament to the ongoing evolution of the book, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of music history scholarship and the evolving needs of students.
Media Resources
The fifth edition of “Concise History of Western Music” boasts a rich collection of media resources designed to enhance the learning experience for students. These resources provide a deeper understanding of the musical examples discussed in the text, bringing the history of Western music to life. The multimedia package includes access to streaming recordings of works from the Norton Anthology of Western Music, allowing students to listen to the music directly and engage with its sonic qualities.
In addition to audio recordings, the fifth edition also includes a variety of other media resources, such as video clips, interactive timelines, and online quizzes. These resources provide students with a variety of ways to explore the history of Western music, catering to different learning styles and preferences. The media resources are seamlessly integrated into the text, offering a comprehensive and engaging learning experience. Students can access these resources through the Total Access program, which is included with every new copy of the book.
Reception and Reviews
The fifth edition of “Concise History of Western Music” has received generally positive reviews from educators and scholars alike. Reviewers praise the book’s clear and concise writing style, making it accessible for a wide range of students. The text is commended for its ability to effectively convey complex historical and musical concepts in a way that is engaging and understandable. The fifth edition has been lauded for its updated content, reflecting the latest scholarship in the field of music history.
Reviewers also highlight the book’s strong pedagogical features, including its use of numerous musical examples, illustrations, and timelines. These features help to bring the history of Western music to life and make it more relatable for students. The book’s comprehensive coverage of the subject matter, from the Middle Ages to the present, is also widely appreciated. The fifth edition is considered a valuable resource for students of music history, providing a solid foundation for further exploration of the subject.
Availability and Access
The fifth edition of “Concise History of Western Music” is readily available through a variety of channels. It can be purchased in print format from major online retailers and bookstores. Additionally, the book is available in digital formats, such as PDF and ePub, offering increased convenience and accessibility. The digital version can be accessed on various devices, allowing for on-the-go learning and study.
Furthermore, the book’s publisher, W. W. Norton & Company, provides a comprehensive online platform called “Total Access.” This platform offers a wealth of supplementary resources, including audio and video recordings, interactive timelines, and chapter quizzes. Total Access grants students the opportunity to engage with the material in a more dynamic and interactive way, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the subject.
In addition to these traditional avenues, “Concise History of Western Music” is also available through online libraries and digital lending services. This expanded accessibility makes the book readily available to a wider audience, promoting the study and appreciation of Western music history across different platforms and demographics.
Comparison with Other Music History Texts
While “Concise History of Western Music” stands out as a popular choice for its accessible approach, it’s crucial to acknowledge the existence of other prominent texts within the field. One noteworthy alternative is “A History of Western Music” by Donald Jay Grout and Claude V. Palisca. This comprehensive text, though longer and more detailed, is considered a cornerstone in music history scholarship. While it offers a deeper dive into the subject, it may be less suitable for introductory courses or students seeking a concise overview.
Another comparison point is “The Cambridge History of Western Music Theory,” which focuses specifically on the theoretical framework of Western music. This text delves into the evolution of musical concepts and systems, offering a valuable perspective for those seeking a more in-depth exploration of the intellectual side of music history. However, it may not be as suitable for those primarily interested in the historical development of musical styles and genres.
Ultimately, the choice between these texts depends on individual learning goals and preferences. “Concise History of Western Music” excels in its accessibility and manageable scope, making it an excellent choice for introductory courses and students seeking a well-rounded understanding of Western music history. However, for those seeking more in-depth analysis or specific areas of focus, the other texts mentioned provide valuable alternatives.