Throughout the twentieth century, musicians frequently incorporated bits of works by other musicians into their own compositions and performances. When a musician borrows from a piece, he or she draws upon not only a melody but also the cultural associations of the original piece. By working with and altering a melody, a musician also transforms those associations. This book explores that vibrant practice, examining how musicians used quotation to participate in the cultural dialogues sustained around such areas as race, childhood, madness and the mass media. The focus of this study is broad, discussing pieces in a spectrum of musical styles (classical, experimental, jazz, and popular) as well as works in the other arts. Part of the young and quickly growing field of musical borrowing, this book takes an important step in discussing the wider cultural ramifications of quotation.

Examines the way the use of quotation in music both creates and transforms cultural associations.

About the Author
David Metzer is Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver. He has published a wide range of articles on twentieth-century music.

Reviews
'... rich and fascinating cultural and aesthetic interpretations ...' Journal of the Royal Musical Association



Book Information
ISBN 9780521036580
Author David Metzer
Format Paperback
Page Count 240
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 368g
Dimensions(mm) 228mm * 150mm * 15mm