About the book
A preeminent composer, music scholar, and biographer presents an engaging and accessible introduction to classical music
For many of us, classical music is something serious -- something we study in school, something played by cultivated musicians at fancy gatherings. In Language of the Spirit, renowned music scholar Jan Swafford argues that we have it all wrong: classical music has something for everyone and is accessible to all. Ranging from Gregorian chant to Handel's Messiah, from Vivaldi's The Four Seasons to the postmodern work of Philip Glass, Swafford is an affable and expert guide to the genre. He traces the history of Western music, introduces readers to the most important composers and compositions, and explains the underlying structure and logic of their music.
Language of the Spirit is essential reading for anyone who has ever wished to know more about this sublime art.
Editions of Language of the Spirit
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780465097548
- EBook
- ISBN 9780465097555
Read an Excerpt
A preeminent composer, music scholar, and biographer presents an engaging and accessible introduction to classical music
For many of us, classical music is something serious -- something we study in school, something played by cultivated musicians at fancy gatherings. In Language of the Spirit, renowned music scholar Jan Swafford argues that we have it all wrong: classical music has something for everyone and is accessible to all. Ranging from Gregorian chant to Handel's Messiah, from Vivaldi's The Four Seasons to the postmodern work of Philip Glass, Swafford is an affable and expert guide to the genre. He traces the history of Western music, introduces readers to the most important composers and compositions, and explains the underlying structure and logic of their music.
Language of the Spirit is essential reading for anyone who has ever wished to know more about this sublime art.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Language of the Spirit about?
A preeminent composer, music scholar, and biographer presents an engaging and accessible introduction to classical music
For many of us, classical music is something serious -- something we study in school, something played by cultivated musicians at fancy gatherings. In Language of the Spirit, renowned music scholar Jan Swafford argues that we have it all wrong: classical music has something for everyone and is accessible to all. Ranging from Gregorian chant to Handel's Messiah, from Vivaldi's The Four Seasons to the postmodern work of Philip Glass, Swafford is an affable and expert guide to the genre. He traces the history of Western music, introduces readers to the most important composers and compositions, and explains the underlying structure and logic of their music.
Language of the Spirit is essential reading for anyone who has ever wished to know more about this sublime art.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Language of the Spirit?
The Arts > Music > Music: styles and genres > Art music, orchestral and formal music
Where can I read a sample of Language of the Spirit?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780465097548
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Language of the Spirit?
Jan Swafford
Who is the Publisher of the book Language of the Spirit?
Basic Books
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Language of the Spirit is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780465097548) and ebook(ISBN 9780465097555)
Where can I buy Language of the Spirit online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Language of the Spirit from below
Where can I buy Language of the Spirit?