The World Encyclopedia of Musical Instruments begins with a history of music making, posing 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 musical traditions.
The book also features the most famous players, as well as examing the role of the composer and the conductor, and providing a guide to the best-known orchestras and concert halls around the world.
The main focus of the book is the visual photographic encyclopedia. The catalog is organized according to families of instruments: strings, woodwind and brass, percussion and keyboards, as well as section on the voice. Each family is introduced, and its members are fully described their origins, how they developed over time, and how they are played.
History of Music-Making and the Orchestra
- Introduction
- What is Music?
- What is a Musical Instrument?
- Music of Ancient Civilizations
- European Music in the First Millennium
- Structuring Music
- Strings
- Bows
- Reeds
- Valves
,etc.
Encyclopedia of Musical Instruments
- Introduction
- Strings
- Woodwind and Brass
- Percussion
- Keyboards
- The Voice
Glossary
Acknowledgements
Index