The Cambridge History of Musical Performance

Leading musicians, historians and scholars come together to present an innovative and integrated history of music through performers and performance.

Leading musicians, historians and scholars examine the history of music from the earliest times to the present through performers and performance. Focusing on the musicians responsible for bringing music to life, rather than the composers, this volume provides a fresh, integrated and innovative perspective on performance history and practice.The intricacies and challenges of musical performance have recently attracted the attention of writers and scholars to a greater extent than ever before. Research into the performer's experience has begun to explore such areas as practice techniques, performance anxiety and memorisation, as well as many other professional issues. Historical performance practice has been the subject of lively debate way beyond academic circles, mirroring its high profile in the recording studio and the concert hall. Reflecting the strong ongoing interest in the role of performers and performance, this History brings together research from leading scholars and historians and, importantly, features contributions from accomplished performers, whose practical experiences give the volume a unique vitality. Moving the focus away from the composers and onto the musicians responsible for bringing the music to life, this History presents a fresh, integrated and innovative perspective on performance history and practice, from the earliest times to today.