Philosophy of Song and Singing An Introduction [Hardcover]

In Philosophy of Song and Singing: An Introduction, Jeanette Bicknell explores key aesthetic, ethical, and other philosophical questions that have not yet been thoroughly researched by philosophers, musicologists, or scientists. Issues addressed include:

• The relationship between the meaning of a songs words and its music
• The performers role and the ensuing gender complications, social ontology, and personal identity
• The performers ethical obligations to audiences, composers, lyricists, and those for whom the material holds particular significance
• The metaphysical status of isolated solo performances compared to the continuous singing of opera or the interrupted singing of stage and screen musicals

Each chapter focuses on one major musical example and includes several shorter discussions of other selections. All have been chosen for their illustrative power and their accessibility for any interested reader and are readily available.

Preface. Acknowledgments. Chapter One Words . Chapter Two Music . Chapter Three Giving Voice (What Do Singers Do?) . Chapter Four Singers and Audiences . Chapter Five Three Ways to Think about Authenticity in Performance . Chapter Six Authenticity, Value & Technology . Chapter Seven Performance: Ethical Considerations . Chapter Eight Song & Drama . Chapter Nine Meaning: Songs in Performance . Chapter Ten Why Sing?

Bicknells erudition is impressive. The book is scholarly yet accessible to undergraduate students. When philosophers and theories are mentioned, they are followed by precise, brief expositions. Thus, the book is appropriate for students with little or no background in philosophy. Its brevity and concision are also virtues for teaching. For those looking for expanding standard, core aesl“0