The History of Musical Instruments and Music-Making A Complete History of Musical Forms and the Orchestra

by Wade-Matthews, Max

• ISBN13: 9781844767533
• ISBN10: 1844767531
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2010-05-16
• Publisher: Southwater

Summary

This book poses the questions "What is music?" and "What is a musical instrument?" Each of the principal ancient civilizations is investigated, with information about key developments and traditions. The text focuses on methods of music-making, explaining how the string and bow create sound, the tonal quality of single and double reeds, the impact of the development of valves, the variety of drum skins, and the types of keyboard mechanisms.

Author Biography

Max Wade-Matthews attended the RAF School of Music at Uxbridge and served in brass bands in England, Germany and Hong Kong. After leaving the RAF he formed a living-history brass band, based on the bands of the American Civil War. He has written several books as well as playing with brass bands, conducting, and teaching. He lives with his son in Leicester, England.
Consultant William Mival is a composer and senior lecturer at the Royal College of Music in London. He is a frequent broadcaster on musical issues on BBC Radio. His compositions include works for the BBC Symphony Orchestra as well as for some of today's brightest young soloists.