Is Language a Music? presents broadly ranging explorations of musical reference that address how and why language cannot be the only measure of meanings. Music, the author insists, is pervaded by significations, but often their erasure is as pertinent to artistry as their construction. This volume's 15 essays in musical semiotics are grouped into sections that treat issues in structural description, present alternative views of theoretical foundations, consider the elaboration of gestural references to form musical discourse, explore some stylistic issues in 20th-century music, and examine the resistance to reference which is esteemed in the tradition of absolute music.

Musical Meaning and Interpretation-Robert S. Hatten, editor

If music is a universal language, is language a universal music?

About the Author

David Lidov is a composer whose theoretical investigations were an early and influential source of the musical semiotics movement of recent decades. He teaches at York University in Toronto.

Reviews

David Lidov's new book is highly recommended. . . Not only has Lidov's collection of essays established a secure base in the imposing terrain associated with the study of musical signification, but it also has laid some vital programmatic depots over that terrain that will aid future treks across the rugged musico-semiotic landscape. 31.2 Fall 2009

* Music Theory Spectrum *



Book Information
ISBN 9780253343833
Author David Lidov
Format Hardback
Page Count 272
Imprint Indiana University Press
Publisher Indiana University Press
Weight(grams) 553g