For its time the most comprehensive treatment of the subject. mdash; New Grove Dictionary of Music and MusiciansBefore the 17th century; composers seldom indicated in their music whether the composition was to be performed by a particular combination of voices or instruments. Then in 1607 Monteverdi made a well-known suggestion for the orchestration of his opera Orfeo. And as the Baroque era unfolded; the concept of orchestrations began to evolve; achieving a notable clarity and the acceptance of a keyboard instrument as an integral part of the ensemble.Toward the middle of the 18th century; stylistic changes in instrumental music; e.g. styles that emphasized a single melodic line; directly affected methods of orchestration; while in the 19th century; orchestrations became an ever more vital factor in the composers technique; a stylistic determinant that places a wealth of possibilities at his disposal. Finally; in the early 18th century; increasing awareness of the importance of internal balance; certain ideals of blended sound; and firmly established instrumental characteristics enabled orchestration to take its place as an academic discipline beside harmony and counterpoint.In this classic manual; a noted English composer describes 57 orchestral instruments (ca. 1914) tracing their origins; development; and status at the beginning of World War I. Not only are the history and evolution of each instrument fully discussed; the author also explores the techniques of each instrument; as well as players impressions about what they must play. The result is an unparalleled insight into the inner working of an orchestra mdash; a vivid impression of what it is like to be a violinist; clarinetist; trombonist; or other orchestral player.While there have been numerous developments in instrumental technique on an individual basis since the books first publication; most of what Forsyth says is still valid. Writing with wit; grace; and good sense; Forsyth created a formidably thorough; comprehensive; and informative text that has instructed and influenced generations of composers; conductors; musicians; and musicologists.
#1128259 in eBooks 2013-04-05 2013-04-05File Name: B00C8UJVFK
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Good for the priceBy JudithThis book is an okay purchase; considering the low cost. It includes descriptions of unusual items donated to the Smithsonian. Items described are things like a piece of the Bastille; a piece of the Berlin Wall; a mini version of a Franklin fireplace; etc. I bought the book because it included information about the table upon which Grant Lee signed papers that ended the Civil War. I knew that Elizabeth Bacon Custer (wife of General George Armstrong Custer) was given the table; and wanted to learn more about it. I was a bit disappointed that the history of each item was more in-depth; but overall enjoyed the book.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. The best point of view with this book is showing how ...By Mr. Will PaulsenThis book is a light and very enjoyable read. The collecting of souvenirs has always been a tradition by people everywhere and throughout time. The best point of view with this book is showing how to legitimize such collecting by doing basic academic research to flesh out the meraning of the various objects.; especially understanding them in the historical context.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Fun bits of triviaBy J. E.Interesting; but a bit difficult to read page to page. Its fun as a "pick up" book; one that you can read a portion of and put it down.