A History of Western Music

Written by J. Peter Burkholder Donald Jay Grout , and Claude V. Palisca

Explore the evolution of Western music from chant to hip-hop.

4.0 Goodreads · 2,792 ratings

1011 pages

$168.25Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Journey through the rich tapestry of Western music with Peter Burkholder as your guide. From ancient chants to modern hip-hop, discover how musical traditions evolved and shaped today's soundscape. What choices did musicians make, and how do they resonate in contemporary culture? This vibrant narrative connects the past with the present, offering insights for tomorrow's musicians. Uncover the pivotal moments and figures that defined an era and continue to influence the music we hear today. Dive into a story where history and melody intertwine, revealing the enduring power of music across centuries.

From the publisher

The definitive survey, combining current scholarship with a vibrant narrative. Carefully informed by feedback from dozens of scholars, it remains the book that students and teachers trust to explain what’s important, where it fits, and why it matters. Peter Burkholder weaves a compelling story of people, their choices, and the western musical tradition that emerged. From chant to hip-hop, he connects past to present to create a context for tomorrow’s musicians.

At a glance