The History of Music - Art and Science, From the Earliest Records to the Fall of the Roman Empire #263477

Author Chappell's intent with <i>The History of Music (Art and Science): Volume One – From the Earliest Records to the Fall of the Roman Empire</i> was to produce a complete history of music. Beginning with the earliest evidence of music, which largely comes from the Greeks, Chappel attempts to trace the development of the art through to modern day. <i>Volume One</i>, presented here, traces the history of music until the fifth century. <br><br>The book actually opens where many works conclude, with a detailed glossary and explanatory index. From there, Chappel begins his historical examination in earnest. Opening chapters highlight the early Greek system of music, the three-stringed lyre of Egypt, the development of harmonies, and the earliest uses of music. Later chapters discuss early designs of instruments and the importance of music in the Roman Empire. The volume concludes with a brief section of notes and addendums.<br><br><i>The History of Music</i> is a noble effort at documenting the history of the art, Chappell is clearly a well-researched and knowledgeable writer. The work includes a fair amount of technical analysis, and thus is best read by an individual with some knowledge of the principals of music theory. <br><br>Chappell's first volume in his series <i>The History of Music</i> is a well-written and worthy attempt at documenting the early history of the development of music. Students of history, particularly those interested in music history, will certainly find this to be a fascinating work.