Why study music? How much practical use is it in the modern world? This introduction proves how studying music is of great value both in its own terms and also in the post-university careers marketplace. The book explains the basic concepts and issues involved in the academic study of music, draws attention to vital connections across the field and encourages critical thinking over a broad range of music-related issues. • Covers all main aspects of music studies, including topics such as composition, opera, popular music, and music theory • Provides a thorough overview of a hugely diverse subject, from the history of early music to careers in music technology, giving a head-start on the areas to be covered on a music degree • New to ‘neume’? Need a reminder about ‘ripping’? - glossaries give clear definitions of key musical terms • Chapters are carefully structured and organized enabling easy and quick location of the information needed

• Outlines the major benefits of studying music at degree level and covers the diverse approaches and topics a music student can expect to encounter on their course • Glossaries provide clear definitions of key terms in music studies • Textboxes contain concise summaries of essential information and present illustrative case studies to clarify important themes •

Contents

Features of this book: a guide; Introduction J. P. E. Harper-Scott; Part I. Disciplines: 1. Music history Jim Samson; 2. Music theory and analysis Rachel Beckles Willson; 3. The sociology of music Katharine Ellis; 4. The psychology of music John Rink; 5. Music aesthetics and critical theory Andrew Bowie; Part II. Approaches to Repertoire: 6. World musics Henry Stobart; 7. Early music Stephen Rose; 8. Opera David Charlton; 9. Concert music Erik Levi; 10. Jazz Andrew Bowie; 11. Popular music Elizabeth Eva Leach; 12. Music in film and television Julie Brown; Part III. Music in Practice: 13. Musical performance Tina K. Ramnarine; 14. Composition Julian Johnson; 15. Music technology Brian Lock; 16. The economics and business of music Nicholas Cook.