The Evolution of Music through Culture and Science
The Evolution of Music through Culture and Science explores how scientific and technological change has shaped music, musical instruments, recording, performance spaces and access to music across cultures. The listing says its explanations require no prior scientific background, while discussion of musical taste and genres considers personal background and change over time.
At a glance
- Connects music's development with scientific innovation and technology, from instruments and notation to recording and electronic transmission.
- Discusses how acoustics and architecture shaped performance spaces, alongside music's influence on electronics and computing.
- The listing presents the scientific concepts without requiring prior scientific background.
Reference price: $45.99
Price checked: Nov 14, 2026
View offerAhead of Black FridayExplore the selectionPros and cons
Pros
- Covers both practical changes in how music is made and shared and the reciprocal influence between music and technology.
- The stated scope spans classical, jazz, pop and music from different cultures.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | Oxford University Press |
|---|---|
| Publication date | January 25, 2020 |
| Edition | Illustrated |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 284 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0198848404 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0198848400 |
| Weight listed | 1.14 pounds |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 8.6 x 0.8 x 5.6 inches |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers interested in how science and technology have influenced music across time.
- Music enthusiasts looking for context on instruments, recording, acoustics and musical taste without a scientific prerequisite.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a hands-on music theory course or instrument-learning guide. The listing describes a broad discussion of music, culture and science instead.
Customer reviews on Amazon
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The listing shows a small set of uniformly five-star ratings, but supplies no written customer feedback. That limited rating evidence cannot establish which aspects readers valued or how well the book suits a particular reader.
Frequently asked questions
Does the book assume a science background?
The listing says it presents scientific concepts without technical detail and does not require prior scientific background.
What subjects does the book cover?
Its stated scope includes technology and instruments, musical notation, recording, electronic transmission, acoustics, concert halls, musical taste and music across cultures.
How long is the listed edition?
The listing gives a print length of 284 pages and identifies the edition as illustrated.
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