Roger North's The Musicall Grammarian 1728

This comprehensive treatise explores musical eloquence through grammar, rhetoric, and history, enriching the understanding of music theory and practice in Roger North's The Musicall Grammarian 1728.

In Roger North's The Musicall Grammarian 1728, originally published in 1990, the author delves into the intricate world of musical eloquence. The work is divided into five distinct parts, each exploring different aspects of music theory and practice. The first two sections focus on the orthoepy, orthography, and syntax of music, effectively establishing a foundational grammar. The subsequent parts transition into the arts of invention and communication, which are framed as a rhetoric, while the final section provides a historical context through etymology.

This treatise is not just a collection of theoretical concepts; it is a comprehensive exploration of how music can be articulated and understood. The first-time complete edition includes two substantial chapters of commentary that enhance the reader's understanding. Jamie Kassler situates North's work within the rich intellectual landscape of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, linking it to both musical and non-musical writings. Meanwhile, Mary Chan examines the physical and textual elements of the treatise, offering insights into North's cognitive processes regarding musical thought.

Roger North's The Musicall Grammarian 1728 serves as a significant contribution to the study of music, providing a blend of grammar, rhetoric, and history. It not only enriches the reader's knowledge of musical theory but also invites them to appreciate the eloquence inherent in musical expression.