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Five Straight Lines

A History of Music

Andrew Gant author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Profile Books Ltd

Published:18th Nov '21

Should be back in stock very soon

This hardback is available in another edition too:

Five Straight Lines cover

This engaging exploration of music's history reveals how it has evolved over time, as seen in Five Straight Lines by Andrew Gant.

In Five Straight Lines, Andrew Gant takes readers on an engaging journey through the history of music, exploring its evolution from prehistory to the present day. This comprehensive account delves into how music has been shaped by various cultural, technological, and historical influences. Gant's narrative is both informative and entertaining, making complex ideas accessible to a wide audience. He highlights key figures and movements that have defined music across different eras, from the medieval period to contemporary genres.

The book examines the significant shifts in musical practices and technologies that have occurred over centuries. Gant introduces us to the major composers and musicians who have left an indelible mark on the world of music, including Mozart, Schubert, and McCartney. Each chapter paints a vivid picture of the environments where music thrived, whether in solemn churches, lively taverns, or grand courts. Through rich storytelling, Gant brings to life the instruments and techniques that have shaped the soundscapes of different ages.

Five Straight Lines is not just a historical account; it is a celebration of music's profound impact on human experience. By connecting the dots between various musical styles and their cultural contexts, Gant encourages readers to appreciate the intricate tapestry of sound that surrounds us. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the forces that have shaped the music we love today.

What an enjoyable read this is. ... Andrew Gant quite rightly goes back into the distant past (before anything was written down) and comes right up to date, even speculating in an epilogue what the next million years might bring. ... The joy of this history is the extra bits of information which he includes. ... An entertaining history * Church Times *
A genial, approachable narrator, with a welcome glint in his eye ... I came away charmed by Gant's clever turn of phrase, grateful for his distilled clarity of thought * Spectator *
Praise for O Sing Unto the Lord 'Excellent ... This authoritative and engaging history brings ... light and warmth to the subject * Sunday Times *
An indispensable guide to a great tradition - and a very good read. -- Catherine Bott, Presenter, Classic FM
An illuminating and entertaining history ... without recourse to pedantry or jargon. * Literary Review *
I would urge everybody interested in English history to buy this book at once -- Nico Muhly * New York Times *
An enjoyable read ... Entertaining history * Church Times *

ISBN: 9781781257777

Dimensions: 236mm x 158mm x 50mm

Weight: 860g

656 pages