Introductory gift, for a limited time and exclusively for members only, a soft-bound copy of the 780 page landmark book A Big History of Music, by founder Brad Raylius Daniel.
A Big History of Music by Brad Raylius Daniel
Beginning with a description of how the elements of music are found at every level of material existence, and referencing cutting-edge physics and cosmology to explain how they are associated with the very creation of the universe, A Big History of Music then proceeds with an assessment of the current working theories on how proto-musical activity in animals and early humans developed into actual music making, as well as a review of the available evidence concerning our prehistoric engagement with music. Music in the ancient civilizations, and its period of deconstruction in the West during the Dark Ages, continues a narrative thread which reveals a powerfully strong connection between music and spiritual endeavors. The standard “textbook” period of music history, from the Middle Ages up through the 20th century, is adeptly covered; but unlike the typical survey of music’s history, this is followed up with detailed coverage of the popular music genres that originated in America and have since been exported throughout the world, including ragtime, jazz, the blues, rock, and beyond.
“Big History” enthusiasts have just received a major new offering—a large-time-frame view of a specialized historical subject. Conventional music histories may abound, but this is a one-of-a-kind contribution. The vital need for this multi-disciplinary, wide-scale approach to music history seems self-evident now.
This comprehensive survey of the knowledge of music’s relation to human culture is a must read, whether one is a respected academic, aspiring or professional musician, everyday music lover, or well-rounded knowledge seeker.
If you could only own one book about music, then beyond a doubt this is the one.
The sub-title “Everything That Everyone Should Know About Music” says it all. This book will enhance your perception of music and, hopefully, contribute to a fundamental improvement in the way we incorporate music education into the core curriculums of our various schools.
Brad,
Your book is amazing. That is the most comprehensive treatise on music I have ever seen. It’s enjoyable in little bites or big ones and made so accessible with your wonderful life stories.
I was right there in the car with you on your childhood adventure to the drive-in the first time you heard The Sound of Music. I’ve picked up my guitar and resonated along with your explanation of overtones, tunings and scales. I was harmonized by your perception of vibration in the natural world; from your birth to the beginnings of man to the grand concert in the cosmos.
It’s music theory, music history and music making explained by a scholar, a musician and incredible soul who is clearly tuned into the universe.
I look forward to reading more of YOUR version of The Sound of Music, listening to the world in a whole new way and playing music with new insights.
Bravo! What a gargantuan effort.
Thank you.
Mr. Daniel,
You have written a fascinating book that I think will change the way many people view the subject of music education. You have somehow managed to bring forth many important facts about music that had escaped my notice, while shedding light and bringing new relevance to the more common aspects of music history that I was already familiar with. Congratulations and thanks for your efforts to “promote knowledge of music’s diverse roles in human life.”
I’m finding this book totally fascinating! What an amazing amount of thought and scholarship has gone into it. I think it fills a real need and is an extraordinary accomplishment. Please keep up the good work.