In this beautifully illustrated book Jim Forest explains the use of icons in prayer to the uninitiated. Icons are not just "art" but a powerful aid to prayer and contemplation.
#712682 in eBooks 2012-11-13 2012-11-13File Name: B00AACPXZ0
Review
7 of 7 people found the following review helpful. Wonderful text - for serious music students a must haveBy Chris SaharI disagree this books use is limited to 16th century counterpoint. The only case I would agree is a student new to counterpoint who jumps right to the exercises in species counterpoint.In reality; 16th century counterpoint is the gateway to understanding 18th century and even more modern usage of it as you learn an excellent standard to compare later developments. Also; the exercises in writing imitation; invertible counterpoint are great. And yes the essay on its development thru the 19th century is fantastic.Now I will not say this is the most comprehensive - for that there is a French tome published in the early 20th centurey which is encyclopedic. The name slips my memory.But for compactness and depth of its topic and providing its context as well as the great exercises; Jeppesens will be a book you will always return to. That is rare for textbooks.Id say this book is especially good for music composers and song writers (yes pop ones too). The author spends much time discussing melodic writing in addition to contrapuntal writing.Finally the presentation is far more in line with modern readers experience; the old presentation of question and answer and deduction may have its merits but I agree it is a tough way to present a new topic to someone. Start with this; then go to Fux and studies of scores (yes Counterpoint and Compositions is a good text when shown by a teacher how to employ the methods; otherwise it can be limiting in its impact upon learning).In sum; for the serious music student this should be one of the 10 - 20 essential texts in your library. For music lovers steeped deeply in Medieval and Renassaince music and some understanding of music theory; this would enhanace your appreciation of the craft and the music - and hey you may find yourself writing some great liturgical music for your choir in the end!0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Good Solid "Textbook" It gave me what I wantedBy CustomerGood Solid "Textbook" It gave me what I wanted: i.e. further grounding in the basics.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Customergood!