Of all the worlds major musical cultures; that of China may well be the least thoroughly understood and most often misunderstood by Western scholars and music lovers;writes J. Lawrence Witzleben. Witzleben adds to the understanding of this musical culture with the first book-length study of one of Chinas most influential regional musical traditions. The first Western ethnomusicologist admitted to a Chinese conservatory; Witzleben presents a multifaceted study; based on more than two years of fieldwork in the early 1900s; of "silk and bamboo" string and wind music (Jiangnan sizhu) in Shanghai. Although Jiangnan sizhu is a regional tradition; enjoyed by only a small part of the population; an indepth look at it reveals much about Chinese musical culture. Jiangnan sizhu is deeply rooted in everyday life; and those who perform and enjoy it represent a broad spectrum of Chinese society. It is cultivated as an amateur art; but many of its performers are closely tied to the professional musical community. And although it is a regional genre; it has been highly influential in the development of contemporary solo and ensemble music for Chinese instruments. Through his varied experiences as student; performer; and participant-observer; Witzleben is able to present and discuss the perspectives of musicians in Shanghai and of Chinese scholars and teachers; as well as those of a Western-trained ethnomusicologist. The result is a comprehensive understanding of Jiangnan sizhu its musical sounds and concepts; the people who play; teach; and learn the music; and the environment in which it is and has been played; heard; and discussed.
#3531365 in eBooks 2010-09-01 2013-01-01File Name: B00BWSCX7C
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. This is a wonderful book--and rates as Easy Piano--but not for the very ...By PianoladyThis is a wonderful book--and rates as Easy Piano--but not for the very young pianist of less than about three years of lessons. It has jazz like modulations. I like it; but its going to be a challenge to teach to a student with only a year of lessons under his belt.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Nice book but will not bring magic piano powersBy PapaIm a guitarist and below average musical notation reader. I was hoping this would be a quick easy way to play these melodies but its a challenge. Still well presented and very clear but a challenge for the non pianist.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Great music - loveBy LutronicamaestroWe love Vince