The colonial architecture of the nineteenth century has much to tell us of the history of colonialism and cultural exchange. Yet; these buildings can be read in many ways. Do they stand as witnesses to the rapacity and self-delusion of empire? Are they monuments to a world of lost glory and forgotten convictions? Do they reveal battles won by indigenous cultures and styles? Or do they simply represent an architectural style made absurdly incongruous in relocation? Empire Building is a study of how and why Western architecture was exported to the Middle East and how Islamic and Byzantine architectural ideas and styles impacted on the West. The book explores how far racial theory and political and religious agendas guided British architects (and how such ideas were resisted when applied); and how Eastern ideas came to influence the West; through writers such as Ruskin and buildings such as the Crystal Palace. Beautifully written and lavishly illustrated; Empire Building takes the reader on an extraordinary postcolonial journey; backwards and forwards; into the heart and to the edge of empire.
#2812176 in eBooks 2010-06-28 2010-06-28File Name: B00FT7VI14
Review
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. STILL VELVETBy Eager ReaderTom Fettkes piano arrangement books are all 5 star in my estimation. I began with his "velvet" collections; but have found all his work could be considered "velvet" because of a celestial; flowing style. Another reviewer mentions this book seems more intermediate than early advanced; surely a fine line of difference; but I believe they would be more challenging pieces if not for Fettkes style. Each is such a joy to read through even the first time; made accessible to a wider ability range by that "velvet" quality. I own all his piano books; and I can usually use new acquisitions almost immediately. Last Sunday night I received rave reviews; especially for the offertory; after playing what may ultimately prove my favorite in this volume; a blend of "The Moonlight Sonata" with "O Come; O Come Emmanuel." One gentleman actually held my hand for a prolonged time; saying he could listen all night. What a blessing it is to have such piano arrangements available; making it easy to delight and inspire a congregation! To use an old-fashioned; but still hugely-significant concept; I believe Tom Fettkes piano arrangements are anointed by the Holy Spirit in a wonderful way.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Joy of Mans Desiring and Watchet Auf (Sleepers Awake)By Jeanean LewisFor me - "You just cant beat Tom Fettke"! His arrangements are unbeatable... I am the pianist where I live (an adult retirement home; assisted living) for 2 church services a week. I also started a Hymn Sing six years ago and its still goingl When I play Tom Fettkes hymn arrangements; my friends are ALWAYS responding so positively. Im going to give a program before Christmas; I will be using Carols from Classics AND Christmas with a Velvet Touch. Ill also play two J.S. Bach pieces; Jesu; Joy of Mans Desiring and Watchet Auf (Sleepers Awake); which have been favorites of mine for many; many years. I was a church organist for fifty-three years; but health problems forced me to give it up - BUT I still have my piano and I love to make people feel good.Jeanean Dearman Lewis2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Always enjoy using Tom Fettkes arrangementsBy DuckybooAlways enjoy using Tom Fettkes arrangements. I can take the base ideas and add many of my own stylistictreatments with ease. Very interesting; rhythmically ; and harmonically. His music shows that his soul is inhis style and treatments. Love your music Tom! Keep letting those inspirational juices flow.