The Orchestra: A Very Short Introduction

The Orchestra: A Very Short IntroductionIn this Very Short Introduction, D. Kern Holoman considers the structure, roots, and day to day functioning of the modern philharmonic society. He explores topics ranging from the life of a musician in a modern orchestra, the recent wave of new hall construction from Berlin to Birmingham, threats of bankruptcies and strikes, and the eyebrow raising salaries of conductors and general managers. At the heart of the book lies a troubling pair of

In this Very Short Introduction, D. Kern Holoman considers the structure, roots, and day-to-day functioning of the modern philharmonic society. He explores topics ranging from the life of a musician in a modern orchestra, the recent wave of new hall construction from Berlin to Birmingham, threats of bankruptcies and strikes, and the eyebrow-raising salaries of conductors and general managers. At the heart of the book lies a troubling pair of questions: Can such a seemingly anachronistic organization long survive? Does the symphony matter in contemporary culture? Holoman responds to both with a resounding yes. He shows that the orchestra remains a potent political and social force, a cultural diplomat par excellence. It has adapted well to the digital revolution, and it continues to be seen as an essential element of civic pride. In a time of upheaval in how classical music is created, heard, distributed, and evaluated, the orchestra has managed to retain its historic role as a meeting place of intellectual currents, an ongoing forum for public enlightenment.


Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
Published: 09/10/2012
ISBN: 9780199760282
Pages: 168
Weight: 0.30lbs
Size: 6.70h x 4.30w x 0.50d