Music and Society: The Politics of Composition, Performance and Reception

by Richard D. Leppert (Editor), Susan McClary (Editor)

Socially and politically grounded enterprises such as feminism, semiotics and deconstruction have effected a major transformation in the ways in which the arts and humanities are studied. This provocative volume of essays challenges the ideology that insists music occupies an autonomous sphere. By examining the ways in which music and society interact with and mediate one another within and across socio-cultural boundaries, these authors--musicologists, sociologists, cultural theorists--provide a sound argument.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction

224 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1989

Reviews

[Snufkin · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars because there was one essay I couldn't stand (the one on Chopin), but it is a fantastic variety collecting essays covering different aspects of how music is linked with society. Bach pushing boundaries was a fantastically fresh opening, the analysis of artwork was unexpected and a great addition to the other music-focused works. The biggest revelation was on male hegemony in music, as a female musician it struck a chord. For me the comparison of pop music didn't make total sense (is it early as separate as he makes out?), and the future of recorded music was quite techincal. Amazing how this 20-yr old book is still so relevant today!

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

A collection of essays relating to the topic. Some seem slightly dated, but with one exception they include enough depth of analysis to overcome this. Rose Rosengard Subotnik's chapter is particularly compelling.

[Kyle Brennan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Susan McClary is the greatest. John Shepherd's essay on music and male hegemony was excellent as well.