The Improvisation of Musical Dialogue: A Phenomenology of Music [Paperback]

Bruce Ellis Benson (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0521009324 | ISBN-13: 978-0521009324 | Publication Date: March 10, 2003

Whereas most books on the philosophy of music focus on the creation and reproduction of music, Bruce Benson's concern is the phenomenology of music making as an activity. He offers a radical thesis that improvization is of primary importance at the moment of music making. The book brings together a wide range of musical examples from classical music, jazz, early music and other genres. Incorporating analytic and continental philosophy, musicology and performance-practice issues, it is a provocative study for philosophers of art and musicologists. It also appeals to general readers; especially those who perform.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'... a timely and I believe much-needed reorientation of attention ... it will be found engaging reading by philosophers, musicians, and conceptually adventurous listeners.' Gary Hagsberg, Bard College

Book Description

This book is an important contribution to the philosophy of music. Bruce Benson's concern is the phenomenology of music making as an activity. He offers a radical thesis that it is improvisation that is primary in the moment of music making.It will be a provocative read.

Product Details

• Paperback: 216 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press (March 10, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0521009324
• ISBN-13: 978-0521009324
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,293,629 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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