Book Description
Designed for undergraduate music majors, Harmony in Context provides the richest possible musical context for the study of harmony, constantly encouraging students to translate what they are learning into better performances and better listening. The musical examples and anthology encompass a wide variety of different composers and repertoires. Students will particularly appreciate the clarity of the presentation and the attractiveness of the text’s layout, both of which enable a smooth progression through the material.
Customer Reviews:
Thorough yet accessible.......2006-03-18
This is the textbook I wish I would have used as an undergrad - the explanations are thorough yet assessible. Most theory texts often try to teach a bit too much from the historical perspective without enough emphasis on the actual application of theory or fail to go into enough detail to be useful in the long term (Kotska.)
Also, many theory texts often dump undergrads in the middle of part writing and analysis without really showing them where the theorical ideas came from - this is where Theory in Context is the strongest. This is also one of the only texts that gives a detailed yet easy to understand introduction to species counterpoint and relates it to part writing.
Francoli provides a comprehensive view of theory and its application in music ranging from the Middle Ages, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and even pop and jazz. He is also excellent at providing a great deal of information about the finer details of harmony while also addressing the bigger picture of analysis by using a modified form of Schenkerian analysis. I cannot say enough good about this text but I do have to give one warning: While the book is very descriptive and thorough, it can initially be a bit wordy for the typical freshman. But, as long as the instructor is at hand to clarify certain ideas, as is in any theory class using any book, the students often remark they vastly preferred his explanations to any of the other texts I have used. My only other complaint is that the book doesn't include nearly enough on 20th/21st century theory, but this this is still my favorite text to date.
Book Description
The Elements of Music is a two-volume text with companion workbooks for 2-year music theory courses that take a comprehensive approach. The text is distinguished by an attention to detail that makes learning (and teaching) easier; it is example intensive, immediately reinforcing theoretical concepts with musical selections.
In addition, The Elements of Music gives students a command of essential compositional and analytical skills -- including a strong grounding in four-part writing -- and an understanding of musical style though comprehensive analysis. Built-in pedagogical aids assist the student, while the extensive Instructor's Manual saves time for the teacher.
The second edition includes a greater emphasis on comprehensive analysis along with more thorough coverage of 4-part voice leading, harmony, large scale melodic and harmonic relationships, and 20th Century music. The Elements of Music works particularly well with The Analytical Anthology of Music, also by Turek.
Customer Reviews:
Useful Guide to Learn Music Theory.......2004-02-02
I know nothing about music theory and have read five to six books on this subject. Most of them are written for seating in the ABRSM's examinations or just enough for playing one musical instrument. However, this book is tailor-made for layman, which is very detailed written in academic and professional style. To me and those who know nothing about music at all, it is very good "road signal" to get into it.
Learning Music Theory has never been easier!.......2003-04-02
I never played any musical instruments or even sang extensively using sheet music, and therefore knew nothing when I arrived at college to take my first music theory class. With this book, I went from knowing nothing to being at the top of my class! Turek is just phenomenal with how genius this book is! I now tutor kids in music theory who have had it all their lives, it is that great! Thanks Dr. Turek!
Understandable & Comprehensive.......2002-02-12
I picked up guitar about 3 year ago and wanted to understand music theory. This book started simple, used lots of examples and built to an advanced level. I have a solid grasp of musical concepts that used to mystify me. I've really enjoyed it and look forward to studying volume II!
No Title.......2002-01-16
I used this textbook (as well as Vol. II) when I was doing my Musicology and Composition studies. Since then, I have devoured several other Theory textbooks, but this set remains the greatest yet written. Were I teaching, I would swear by it.
The Elements of Music: Concepts and Applications.......2000-03-31
This is an excellent book for gaining a good fundamental knowledge of music theory. I picked the book up at a university bookstore where it is used in a formal music department instructional setting. However, the mature, disciplined musician who can set aside study time to work through this book for self instruction will enjoy it and greatly improve their musical ability. In particular, I found the selection of musical examples useful, enjoyable and fun. Overall a great book.
Average customer rating:
- Unfortunate Revision
- review of Programmed Course in MusicTheory by J. Clough
- Great for homeschool moms with some music background.
- Still the best programmed music theory text
- A very good book
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Scales, Intervals, Keys, Triads, Rhythm, and Meter: A Programmed Course in Elementary Music Theory, With an Introduction to Partwriting, Third Edition ... (Norton Programmed Texts in Music Theory)
John Clough ,
Joyce Conley , and
Claire Boge
Manufacturer: W. W. Norton
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 General | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
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Basic Harmonic Progressions: A Self-Instruction Program (Norton Programed Texts in Music Theory.)
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Harmonic Materials in Tonal Music: A Programed Course, Part II (9th Edition)
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Studying Rhythm (3rd Edition)
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Basic Materials In Music Theory: A Programed Course
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Harmony and Voice Leading
ASIN: 0393973697 |
Book Description
Following in the footsteps of its successful predecessor, this new edition introduces the basic tenets of music theory and partwriting skills. A new design features visually striking pedagogical aids, allowing students to progress through ever-more challenging exercises at their own pace or to dip into the text at any point to brush up on specific skills. The authors have retained the self-instructional format of the previous two editions, with tests at the end of each part, while adding new quizzes at the end of each set and a cumulative test for Parts One through Six. Numerous examples from the music literature-a new feature of this edition-reinforce the theoretical concepts covered in each set; an appended study anthology of ten complete pieces allows students to see how individual concepts are woven into the fabric of a composition. The companion CD, keyed to specific frames in each set, provides immediate aural reinforcement.
Customer Reviews:
Unfortunate Revision.......2007-02-28
The previous edition of this book was set up in such a manner that the pages on the left side of the book were upside down. You would work through the book one way and then flip it over to work through the other way. Since you use a little card to cover up the answers on one side of the page it made it very easy to work quickly and drill yourself without revealing the answers until you needed them.
This edition while retaining the division of the page between answers and questions puts the instructions and information on the full page and is printed 'normally'. It takes a great deal more effort than the last edition to situate the card over the answers and you are constantly forced to remove it to read the instructions. A quick glance is all that is needed to come to ruin questions for drills. Also you have to write along the middle hump of the book which was not necessary in the previous revision due to everything being on the right side of the right page.
I am disappointed that they changed such a useful book and made it so cumbersome and poorly thought out. I would recommend tracking down a used (but unmarked) copy of the last edition as none of the information has really changed inside the book.
review of Programmed Course in MusicTheory by J. Clough.......2005-08-03
The information is laid out in a nice step-wise way. Repititions make it easy to assimilate the material. I am confident that working my way through the material will help me understand the music that I enjoy playing.
Great for homeschool moms with some music background........2004-07-07
I have a degree in music performance and have used this book successfully many times with my fellow homeschool moms and their kids. In private lessons and in more formal group settings this book has been most helpful, even with those who have had no musical background at all. Children from age 10 to 18 have learned the lessons from *cover to cover* with weekly instruction over the course of a year with me.
Additionally, once the lessons were completed we moved into sight-singing and ear training books (also from the Norton editions) and early part-writing. I feel that this book is actually better organized than the texts used in the theory classes at my conservatory (it was published after I graduated). There are some typos in the text and I would prefer that the answers were not quite so readily accessible(you might feel differently though), but other than that, I highly recommend this text.
Still the best programmed music theory text.......2002-01-28
The latest edition of this book has lost much of the classical simplicity and directness that made the previous editions so successful. Ugly icons crowd the page, statements are watered down, but still the text is far clearer than the other popular programmed text by Harder & Steinke. A student considering entering a conservatory or music school would be well prepared having worked through this book.
I'm dissapointed to see Norton's changes, and the increase in price, but I still recommend this text--it still is the best self-instruction program out there.
A very good book.......2001-01-26
I bought this book to brush up on my theory before returning to school for a 2nd undergrad degree in music, and I think it's helpful for three reasons. First, I've made it through the first 4 parts with relative ease, but I've also picked up enough tidbits of information to make it really useful. (I always knew how to play a major triad but never thought of the fact that it's made up of two 3rds, a major under a minor, or that a minor chord is a minor under a major.) Second, it is forcing me to memorize things like key signatures for minor keys, which I used to figure out by thinking of the relative major key. (That takes enough extra time to make it awkward at an audition.) Finally, it is a workbook, so you are expected to write the answers right in the book. It helps me to remember when I have to take the time to write the answer down, rather than just thinking of it. I haven't complete the entire book yet, but I know I'm just getting into the things I don't know!
All in all it is helping me to combine my practical performance knowledge with the reasons "why". I'm sure that understanding will lead to better performances.
Book Description
The periodic table is one of the most potent icons in science. It lies at the core of chemistry and embodies the most fundamental principles of the field. The one definitive text on the development of the periodic table by van Spronsen (1969), has been out of print for a considerable time. The present book provides a successor to van Spronsen, but goes further in giving an evaluation of the extent to which modern physics has, or has not, explained the periodic system. The book is written in a lively style to appeal to experts and interested lay-persons alike. The Periodic Table begins with an overview of the importance of the periodic table and of the elements and it examines the manner in which the term 'element' has been interpreted by chemists and philosophers. The book then turns to a systematic account of the early developments that led to the classification of the elements including the work of Lavoisier, Boyle and Dalton and Cannizzaro. The precursors to the periodic system, like Dobereiner and Gmelin, are discussed. In chapter 3 the discovery of the periodic system by six independent scientists is examined in detail. Two chapters are devoted to the discoveries of Mendeleev, the leading discoverer, including his predictions of new elements and his accommodation of already existing elements. Chapters 6 and 7 consider the impact of physics including the discoveries of radioactivity and isotopy and successive theories of the electron including Bohr's quantum theoretical approach. Chapter 8 discusses the response to the new physical theories by chemists such as Lewis and Bury who were able to draw on detailed chemical knowledge to correct some of the early electronic configurations published by Bohr and others. Chapter 9 provides a critical analysis of the extent to which modern quantum mechanics is, or is not, able to explain the periodic system from first principles. Finally, chapter 10 considers the way that the elements evolved following the Big Bang and in the interior of stars. The book closes with an examination of further chemical aspects including lesser known trends within the periodic system such as the knight's move relationship and secondary periodicity, as well at attempts to explain such trends.
Customer Reviews:
A book that honors "one of the most powerful icons in science".......2007-04-12
XXXXX
"In spite of the central...role of the periodic table [of the elements], very few authors have felt drawn to write books on its evolution. There is no book that deals adequately with the historical, and especially the conceptual, aspects of the periodic system [that holds that there is a fundamental relationship among the elements] or its significance in chemistry and science generally. It is with the aim of injecting a more philosophical treatment to understanding the periodic system that [this book] has been undertaken...this book is not intended as a work of historical scholarship...the reader is [taken] on an interdisciplinary tour of the many areas of science that are connected with the periodic system, including physics, mathematics, computational methods, history and philosophy of science, and of course, chemistry."
The above is found in the introduction to this fascinating, extremely well researched book by Dr. Eric Scerri, a professor of chemistry and history & philosophy of science at UCLA. This book is fittingly dedicated to the 100TH anniversary of the death of Dimitri Mendeleev (1834 to 1907).
The periodic table of the elements--what is it? Simply, it is basically a two-dimensional representation of a periodic system (that is explained above). The aim of this book is to bring the story of the periodic table "up to date."
This book from my own personal perspective can roughly be divided into five parts:
(I) An overview of the periodic system. (1 chapter)
(II) The development of the periodic table. (4 chapters)
(III) The nucleus and the periodic table: radioactivity, atomic number (the number of protons contained in the nucleus of the atom of an element), and isotopy (isotopes are any of two or more forms of an element having the same number of protons but differing in the number of neutrons). (1 chapter)
(IV) Electronic explanations for the elements of the periodic table: physics versus chemistry. (3 chapters)
(V) Astrophysics, element formation, other chemical trends that defy neat explanations, and three fundamental questions regarding the periodic table. (1 chapter)
One of the key features of this book, as mentioned above, is that it is well researched. However, Scerri goes one step beyond mere information gathering. He actually questions the information he has found. Here are just three examples:
(1) "The notion that the periodic table was deduced from quantum theory by [physicist Niels] Bohr [as the historical record implies] is something of an exaggeration."
(2) "This, I submit, suggests remarkable foresight and intuition on the part of [chemical writer] Gmelin, as does the way in which he uses his system to ground the presentation of the chemistry of these elements. Yet Gmelin's contribution to the classification of the elements has not been sufficiently appreciated of chemistry, or even historians of the periodic system."
(3) Clearly [chemist Dimitri] Mendeleev was spectacularly successful in [his] predictions [of new elements] but perhaps not quite to the extent that is implied by the more selective tables of comparison that regularly appear in chemistry textbooks and even histories of chemistry."
Another feature of this book is the inclusion of the actual writings of key people involved in the development of the periodic table. I found all of these interesting.
Yet another feature is that it is jam-packed with charts, tables, diagrams, etc. so readers can see for themselves what is going on. Some of these tables, etc. are actual copies from historical documents. As well, there are black and white portraits of some of those who contributed to some aspect of the formation and understanding of the periodic table.
The majority of the chapters end with a conclusion that consolidates all the information in a particular chapter. I found these most helpful.
Finally, I feel that this book can be read by all who are interested in the periodic table. However, the author assumes some science background. Many terms are defined in the book's main narrative but many are not. Thus, it would have been helpful if an appendix explaining key terms was also included. As well, a glossary would have been most helpful. Of course, any difficulties can be resolved by referring to a good, standard dictionary or even a basic science dictionary (especially for part IV above).
In conclusion, there are elements of the periodic table that are named after admired others. Examples include Einsteinium and Mendelevium. Eric Scerri has written a comprehensive book that honors the periodic table. Perhaps when a new element is discovered it should be named "Scerrium."
(first published 2006; acknowledgements; introduction; 10 chapters; main narrative 285 pages; notes; index)
XXXXX
Beautiful Patterns.......2007-01-05
Humans are exquisitely good at finding patterns. Sometimes those patterns turn out to be illusory, such as the constellations. Sometimes they turn out to be very real, such as the patterns illustrated by the periodic table of the elements. Eric Scerri, in his book The Periodic Table, has done an excellent job of presenting a "warts and all" history of the periodic table. Instead of presenting the "heroes only" version of the history of the periodic table [speaking of illusory patterns] found in most high school and college textbooks, he gives us a full historical view with all the players, big and small, and shows how even ideas that turned out to be wrong had a positive effect on getting us to the periodic table we use today. Although scientists may someday show that the periodic table ultimately reduces to quantum mechanics, Professor Scerri shows us why we can't say that with the level of certainty with which it is often presented in chemistry classes [the next time I find chemistry among my preps at the high school where I teach, I will be much better prepared to deal with the periodic table]. The interested lay reader should find the book quite accessible, but a knowledge of high school chemistry, especially in the later chapters where electron configurations are presented [idea for the paperback - include an appendix that covers some chemistry basics like electron configurations], will help. Knowledge of the terminology used in the study of philosophy will also help the reader. This book should be of interest to folks with an interest in the history and philosophy of science, even if they don't have a specific interest in chemistry and the periodic table, especially fans of Thomas Kuhn's The Structure of Scientific Revolutions. I strongly suggest that The Periodic Table become required reading for all high school chemistry teachers! John Emsley is still my favorite writer on chemical topics, but Eric Scerri moves to a place not far behind.
An instant classic.......2007-01-03
The Periodic Table is one of the most iconic symbols in our culture. Every person interested in the physical world in which we live will want to read this book. It is also a masterful history of the people involved in the establishment of the periodic law of chemistry. The gradual growth in awareness of the regularities of the elements is the main theme of this work. It is already a classic in its first year in print!
A brilliant achievement.......2006-12-28
Scerri's work is a rich and fascinating account of the history, development and current significance of the Periodic Table: if you have any interest in chemistry you should read it. In his book he describes how the Period System was discovered (giving due credit to Mendeleev, but also to many others who deserve their place in the history of discovery),showing how it was received by other chemists. The most interesting part for me is in the brilliant later chapters, where the role of the Periodic System in influencing Bohr's ideas on the atom, and the nature of the relationship between quantum theory and empirical evidence is presented as clearly as you will find anywhere. Chemistry emerges not (as Dirac once claimed) entirely reduced to physics, but as a still-developing science in which quantum mechanics plays an important but not yet wholly reductive role.
Product Description
Lee Charvez is a witch in a family where all of the women are born with inherent gifts of power. She is a witch dreamer, she has the ability to walk in dreams and the subconscious and to work magic there. There is only one Charvez witch dreamer a generation and she's the strongest in generations. She meets the man of her dreams, literally, when she bumps into Aidan Bell outside their apartment building in New Orleans. He's a three-hundred-year-old vampire with the face of a wicked angel, and he has no problem with claiming her as his own. As if that isn't miraculous enough there's another man, a powerful wizard, Alex Carter, who makes their partnership into a triad. Problem is, there's no time to sit back and enjoy her newfound loves because there's a demon out to destroy the source of her powers, and her entire family in the bargain.
Download Description
Triad By Lauren Dane Lee Charvez is a witch in a family where all of the women are born with inherent gifts of power. She is a witch dreamer, she has the ability to walk in dreams and the subconscious and to work magic there. There is only one Charvez witch dreamer a generation and she's the strongest in generations. She meets the man of her dreams, literally, when she bumps into Aidan Bell outside their apartment building in New Orleans. He's a three-hundred-year-old vampire with the face of a wicked angel, and he has no problem with claiming her as his own. As if that isn't miraculous enough there's another man, a powerful wizard, Alex Carter, who makes their partnership into a triad. Problem is, there's no time to sit back and enjoy her newfound loves because there's a demon out to destroy the source of her powers, and her entire family in the bargain.
Customer Reviews:
Great!!!!.......2007-10-02
This book was a great read!!! There are some instances where you know that the plot can't occur naturally in real life and the dynamics between the two men sharing a women are fictious. But I loved the book and look forward to reading the rest in the series.
Great New Writer.......2006-11-16
This book was a lot of fun. Of course you have to suspend disbelief to accept the situation but that's why it's called fiction. The New Orleans setting gives it the proper atmosphere to carry the story along. I do think that one reviewer who panned it, should look to their own mispellings and grammatical errors before they point a finger at an author.
my review.......2006-11-07
i enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next in the series.
*TRIAD*.......2006-08-31
This book was okay. NOT true to life in just about every sense. I kept thinking "yeah right". Which is unfortunate but come on...guys just aren't that accomodating and more power to you if you've found one! Nice story but way to slow. I kept waiting for the third character to enter into action. Well it takes forever! To many details in the story and not enough "get on with it".
Not bad, just a bit boring.......2006-07-16
I was excited when I saw this book on my Amazon recommendations. How could I not love a story about a vampire, a witch and a warlock? However, I found I didn't much care about the characters, the sex was only mediocre and the plot never pulled me in enough that I cared to finish the book. It wasn't a bad book, it just did nothing for me.
Book Description
This explosive first novel by veteran short story mystery writer Dobbyn brings to life the legal detective team of Michael Knight and Lex Devlin, who have been featured in a dozen short stories in such magazines as Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine and Ellery Queen's Mystery Magazine. Amid the flash and din of Boston's raucous Chinese New Year's celebration an elderly man named Chen An-Yong is shot while watching the parade from his Tyler Street window. Anthony Bradley, the young son of an African-American judge is standing across the street at the time and is immediately arrested for the crime.
Michael Knight is a young lawyer who's going places, but even he is surprised when Judge Bradley asks him to defend his son in such a high profile and politically delicate case. Luckily, Knight finds he has powerful support when a senior partner at his firm, the legendary Lex Devlin, gets involved. Once the foremost criminal defense attorney in Boston, Devlin has mysteriously withdrawn from defense work in recent years. As Knight and Devlin investigate the incident and prepare their client's defense, the older lawyer's passion and ability come to the fore, forcing Knight to wonder about and delve into the murky allegations that eclipsed his mentor's career.
But before he can defend the young Bradley, Knight is forced to enter into the shadow world of gangland Chinatown, where Triads and Tongs rule through fear and intimidation. From the halls of Harvard to the streets of Chinatowns in Boston and Toronto, Knight doggedly pursues an investigation that involves drugs, prostitution, human trafficking and, ultimately, a corruption scandal that could bring down the most powerful people in Boston.
Customer Reviews:
A wonderful debut.......2007-07-09
First Sentence: Suppose you were to wake up one Monday morning to a promising, amber sun rising out of Boston Harbor.
Michael Knight is a young attorney in a very prestigious Boston law firm. Lex Devlin is a legendary attorney whose career was nearly ruined by rumor that he bought a juror. Now the two are working together to defend, and prove innocent, the son of an important Judge. The young man is accused of shooting a revered elderly man in Chinatown. In the investigation, Michael, with his college friend Harry, sees sides of Chinatown he didn't know existed and he may not survive the experience.
Gripping, exciting, suspenseful--over the top at times but boy, did it keep me turning the pages. There was good development of the main characters, wonderful wry humor and a chance to visit my favorite city of Boston and the drive to Canada. I can't ensure the accuracy of the legal scenes, but considering Dobbyn was a practicing lawyer and now a professor of law, I have to assume they are correct. They certainly aren't dull, as is nothing in this book. If you are looking for an exciting weekend read, this is it. I'll also admit I also loved that his inside cover picture is him, his wife and their dog.
NEON DRAGON - picture cover.......2007-03-22
My awesome sister-in-law TOOK the picture that is now the cover of this book! Also, she named her picture "neon dragon" BEFORE the book was ever written....HOW COOL IS THAT!!!!
Yes - she's very talented!!!!! Just thought I would share! Thought some of you might find this info interesting!
SHORT TO LONG.......2007-03-03
As a long time fan of Dobbyn's short stories in Ellery Queen, Hitchcock, et al,I read his first full length novel with eager anticipation.Neon Dragon did not disapppoint & in fact was a great read!
Fast paced with well placed sarcasm & wry humor, the story & characters pull one in & make it difficult to put down ala Patterson & Grisham.However, Dobbyn has a style uniquely his own. His scenes in & about Boston bring back images that I as a former Bostonian can really appreciate.
I look forward to his next novel.
C.F.DiSilva
A fine legal thriller .......2007-03-02
In Boston Michael Knight works as a third year associate attorney at Bilson, Dawes, Leftbridge & Sykes law firm. Thus he is shocked when African-American judge Amos Bradley, expected to be named to the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court soon, asks him to represent his son Anthony, who is accused of killing sexagenarian Mr. Chen An-Young during a New Year's parade. The shooting has angered the Chinese-American community as Mr. Chen was a well respected grandfather.
Knight visits the incarcerated Anthony at the Suffolk County prison where he finds his client articulate and grateful. Anthony insists he is guilty of only agreeing to go with his friend Terry Blocher to attend the Chinese New Year gala. At the office, attorney Alexis "Lex" Devlin offers to help Michael with the case; Alexis was the top gun until a decade ago when a jury-tampering charge forced Lex into "hiding". The case looks hopeless on the surface, but with Knight following clues that take him into nasty neighborhoods, he believes he can prove his client's innocence that is if he stays alive long enough.
The protagonist knew nothing about government corruption or Chinese organized gangs in spite of being in the prosecutor's office for four years before he joined his current firm and grew up in the city. Knight is a terrific protagonist who, with his mentor, makes for a delightful Bostonian joy ride. The story line is fast-paced and includes some fun references to Beantown literary sleuths. However, it is the courtroom that makes this a fine legal thriller as fans of the sub-genre will enjoy the teaming of Michael and Lex.
Harriet Klausner
Customer Reviews:
Highly Recommended.......2006-02-12
Another fantastic book by Olga Bogdashina. She is far and away my favourite professional author on this subject... always so open minded, interesting, and thorough. The title of this book simply doesn't do it justice. If I could name one book that answers, as fully as presently can be, the question `What is Autism / Asperger Syndrome?' this one would be it.
It is divided in to four sections - Autism as it is Officially Defined, Autism from the Inside, Parents, and Professionals. Each of these sections explores Definitions, Diagnosis, Causes, Development, and Treatments from that particular perspective, and in her usual comprehensive fashion, at the end of each section, the author mops up any angles not yet covered under the heading Miscellany: Thoughts to Share.
As always this book is so comprehensive and detailed that it could put you off. Lighter and shorter reads are available. To anyone who wants to really get a thorough understanding though I cannot recommend this book enough. The authors writing has quality and clarity and she handles the subject matter sensitively and thoughtfully. Top marks as usual.
Book Description
Historically, music was long classified as both art and science. Aspects of music--from the mathematics of tuning to the music of the celestial spheres--were primarily studied as science until the seventeenth century. In the nineteenth century, although scientists were less interested in the music of the spheres than the natural philosophers of earlier centuries, they remained committed to understanding the world of performing musicians and their instruments. In Harmonious Triads, Myles Jackson analyzes the relationship of physicists, musicians, and instrument makers in nineteenth-century Germany. Musical instruments provided physicists with experimental systems, and physicists' research led directly to improvements in musical-instrument manufacture and assisted musicians in their performances. Music also provided scientists with a cultural resource, which forged acquaintances and future collaborations.
Jackson discusses experiments in acoustical vibrations that led to the invention of musical instruments and describes work with adiabatic phenomena that resulted in the improvement of the reed pipe, used by organ builders. He examines the collaborations of physicists and mechanicians aimed at standardizing beat and pitch and considers debates stirred by the standardization of aesthetic qualities. He describes the importance for scientists of choral societies as a vehicle for social life and cultural unity. Finally, he discusses a subject that occupied both physicists and musicians of the era: Could physicists, using the universal principles of mechanics, explain musical skill? Was the virtuosity of a Paganini or a Liszt somehow quantifiable? Jackson's historical consideration of questions at the intersection of music and physics shows us how each discipline helped shape the other.
Book Description
With unflinching candor, Martin Booth -- Booker Prize nominee and author of the critically acclaimed Opium: A History -- here unfolds the full story of the Chinese Triads, which, according to UN sources, now pose the greatest potential criminal threat the world has ever known. From San Francisco to Amsterdam to Bangkok to Johannesburg, everywhere, everyday, the Triads are turning crimes like extortion, gambling, international prostitution, illegal immigrant smuggling, money laundering, fraud, corruption, arms, and narcotics into vast profits. This comprehensive history of the Triads traces their evolution over more than two thousand years from obscure parochial Chinese brotherhoods to an international criminal organization. It examines the archaic quasi-religious rituals that have for centuries bound the members of this now global fraternity. It recounts the exploits of patriots and outlaws. It explores the Triads' instigation of the Tong Wars in America, their collaboration with the Allies against the Japanese in Malaya, their collusion with the CIA in Vietnam. It chronicles their escalation of the heroin trade to Europe and the United States. It shocks, and it compels.
Customer Reviews:
A significant contribution to criminology.......2004-07-29
Insightful, comprehensive--Booth put in an incredible amount of research and also an unmatched sensitivity to the issues addressed. Initially when I saw this book, I questioned its authenticity due, I'm afraid to admit, in great part to the fact Booth is not Asian. But unlike the bulk of non-Asian authors writing about Asia, he has an incredible understanding of the culture and heritage--not the kind of understanding learned by a few quaint encounters or one from a sociology degree, but a well-rounded grasp.
A lot is covered in this book and I am more than pleased with my purchase. It serves as an invaluable reference in my library and I've recommended the book to everyone I know interested in the hak sh'e hui (triads).
Martin Booth- The Dragon Syndicates: The Global Phenomenon o.......2003-05-11
Martin Booths "The Dragon Syndicates: The Global Phenomenon of the Triads" is a very comphrensive account of the Triads which starts with study of chinese history, and works its way all the way up to modern day Triad activity. This is a very informative type of read, at times may find it lengthy, but the author provides a very detailed account of the history of the Triads. The numerous accounts of secret societys of many types is fascinating, whether it be merchants banding toghether to protect themselves, or others fighting for patriotic causes, or as more recently criminal groups working to build wealth and wealth alone. I was surprised at how deeply involved these societies were/are involved in chinese politics, culture etc and at the extent to which the Triads have spread globally. I also liked the picture inserts in middle of book, which among other things showed Triad Cermonial ware, Weapons, surveillance pictures. Martin Booth's " The Dragon Syndicates: The Global Phenomenon" is a book worth having, one that you can reread many a time.
Decent, if dry, historical account of Triad History.......2002-12-28
Booth's book about the history of the Triads gives a decent account of the lore and background. However, it reads kind of dry- I'm not sure if it's because after awhile all the Chinese names all seem to run together, or what... The book reads like a very academic endeavor, which is fine- I've read a number of criminology books that take that approach. While very informative, "The Dragon Syndicates" isn't a gripping page turner by any stretch of the imagination.
Excellent.......2002-04-15
This is an excellent book, giving a great insight into Triad culture and its history, and how both are intrinsicly linked to the Chinese mindset. At times it is a little dry, and especially for a Western reader, the names and locations can be introduced so expediently that you have to take a breath and put the names into perspective. However, it is a very solid background read and will have you wanting to read more into the subject matter and the particular persons of historical importance that are discussed.
Insightful and in-depth thesis of the Chinese underword.......2001-09-01
Despite the cosmetic and cultural differences that separate the varied multitudes of this earth, some basic precepts hold at the core of nearly all modern civilizations: a distribution system of goods and services, a military, a ruling elite. The presence of secret societies can also be considered among these standards: the banding of individuals to provide support and strength against the competitive wiles of foreigners and mutual enemies. The names of these secret societies--Freemasons, Illuminati, Mafia, Yakuza--are enough to inspire envy and respect and fear and hatred and lust among those not included in their exclusive ranks, thus the popularity of fringe-writers and conspiracy theorists. The Chinese Triads are perhaps the least documented and possess the greatest potential threat of all these myriad societies, for while the others concern themselves with the manipulation of economy and politics, the Triads have of late become steeped in all manners of vice, including the supply of that most insidious and destructive of painkillers, herion.
The Triads originally began as political resistance to the upstart Manchu Q'ing dynasty, then altered their goals in the 20th century to undermine/suppress the spread of the Communist agenda. In the last fifty years these patriotic intentions have been almost totally corrupted by the drive for monetary gain via extortion, kidnapping, graft, prostitution, gambling, drag trafficking, ect. The influence of the Triads is worldwide and they are now branching out into the lucrative possibilities of the Internet's dark underbelly, including child pornography and technologies fraud.
In his book `The Dragon Syndicates', Martin Booth traces the history of the Triads, chronicling with equal import the legends, rituals, ranks and motivations of these particular secret societies. The task of the author-historian is to combine the political, cultural and social aspects of an era and present these tangled elements in a lucid, flowing format; Booth succeeds admirably in this book, especially considering the elusive nature of the subject. I read this as research for a science-fiction book I'm writing, but found it to be an enjoyable, if ultimately disturbing, read. Well worth the time and money.
Book Description
Catherine Asaro has won numerous awards for her Saga of the Skolian Empire novels, including the Nebula Award and two Romantic Times awards for Best SF Novel. Combining cutting edge scientific theory with grand romantic adventure, this series represents space opera at its finest.
The Final Key is the second half of the story arc known as Triad, which began in Schism. Schism ended with the Skolian Empire torn asunder by personal conflict within the royal family. With The Final Key, the Skolian Empire comes under all-out assault from its nemesis, the Euban Concord, who have undermined the Empire via subterfuge and assassination, leaving it ripe for conquest. The Skolian Empire's only hope? A young woman barely out of her teens who hasn't even complete her training as a cadet.
Customer Reviews:
Yet another entertaining piece of the Skolian saga.......2007-10-07
I'm a big fan of Catherine Asaro's Skolian Empire series. I've read them all (not always in order). This follows up Soz's days in the academy as a Jagernaut cadet and it doesn't disappoint. I enjoyed the other parts of the story that bring members of the Ruby Dynasty together in an often tumultuous turn of events when the Traders attack various Skolian outposts. Particularly interesting is Soz's brother Eldrin's downward spiral into drug abuse and the situation that forces him to go cold-turkey and quit, amidst war. Asaro's strong female characters are a welcome breath of fresh air and it's nice to see that the male characters aren't emasculated in any way. I did notice that all of her strong, beautiful, commanding females have black hair (like the author). Soz's mother Roca has metallic hair but it seems that there aren't any strong, beautiful commanding redheads or blondes in the Skolian universe. This (tongue-in-cheek)item aside, this book is great. I hope Catherine Asaro keeps on plugging away and churning out these books 'cause I love them and I'm waiting (impatiently) for "The Ruby Dice" to be available. Read this!
Ready for More!.......2007-09-08
I turned my 16-year-old grandniece on to the Skolian world this summer...she loved it! As do I. However, I do wonder when Asaro's publisher is going to collect all those miscellaneous short stores in the series into one volume -- I'd like to read them to help complete the big story. In the meantime, I am awaiting the next novel in the series.
Plagarism is Sad, even when You do it to Yourself.......2007-08-09
I love the Skolian Empire series, however Mrs. Asaro has let herself and her readers down with this one. Granted I have yet to get into the meat of the book, but I don't think I can.
Mrs. Asaro plagarises the entire first chapter of this book directly from the prior novel, making changes so minimal if you don't force yourself to read the chapter you would never know she added the two or three sentences she did. The ENTIRE chapter is almost word for word from the prior book. The next chapter also plagarizes large swatches from the previous book, Schism.
This is nothing new with Mrs. Asaro, as she has been copying full sections of exposition between her novels for years. I couldn't tell you how many times the same passages about Raylicon and it's founding, or the history of the Ruby Empire, that come straight word-for-word from like 7 of the 11 novels she has out. While this is annoying to no end, the premise of her novels is so unique you find yourself overlooking this bad habit... you tell yourself since the books can be read in almost any order, Mrs. Asaro needs to relate the same information time and again so her readers can follow the stories without needing to have read the other books.
However, there comes a point when this becomes ridiculous. If you make your living writing, and you hold as many degrees as Mrs. Asaro, this level of plagarism is just sad. If she were in High School she would fail her classes, and if this were college she would be expelled.
Overall, great series, with a great premise, however it is overloaded with repeated chapters, paragraphs and lengthy exposition. Anytime you find yourself skipping whole sections of text this shows a lacking in the author.
A prequel and a sequel all in one.......2007-04-05
"The Final Key" is not only the sequel to "Schism"; it's also the prequel to "Primary Inversion," the book that launched Ms. Asaro's Skolian Empire series.
Here, Soz is just about finished with her cadet training when the Eubians manage to sabotage the Skolian defenses and create chaos.
A suspenseful and well paced battle scene is the centerpiece of the book, and a suspenseful and excruciating battle with drug addiction serves as a great B story. As is usually the case with Catherine Asaro, she makes her characters seem like real people, and maybe you'll relate to Soz's fears as circumstances force her to assume a role she's not yet qualified to fill, and the struggles of Eldrin to free himself from his addiction.
As a sequel, the book finishes the tale begun in "Schism" very neatly, but as a prequel, some of the suspense is lost, because longtime readers know what will happen to the various Skolians down the line.
Newcomers to the series obviously should not start here, but either with "Primary Inversion" or "Schism." (A time line at the back of the book will guide those new readers.)
Notes and Asides. To Ms. Asaro: can we have more about the Blue Dale Archers, please? To Ms. Asaro's publisher: can we please have the short stories, doubtlessly all published in different places, that are mentioned in the timeline in a one- or two-volume collection? Thanks.
Another great Skolian Empire tale--.......2006-10-27
Asaro's combination of physics, military, romance and space opera still pleases in this eleventh tale of the Skolian Empire. She's filling in parts of her history in the Triad books, which can almost seem a re-hash of previous events, but if you love her characters it is well worth reading. Triad takes place before the events of previous books. In this installment, trouble flares again between the Empire and the Eubians, who have incapacitated Kurj, the Military Key of the Empire through an attempted assassination, and have launched a surprise attack--putting nearly all the members of the Ruby Dynasty in peril: Soz, who is still a cadet, but on her first battle-cruiser, her mother Roca--captured by Eubians, her brother Eldrin--in the city under attack and beset by his own demons. I think I'd prefer reading about what happens to characters she hasn't written about yet, but I can read Asaro's books all day, any day--so whatever she wants to write about is welcome.
Books:
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Book 7)
- Hell Hath No Fury (Multiverse, Book 2)
- History: Fiction or Science? Chronology 2 (Chronology)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
Books Index
Books Home
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Workbook and Audio CD (revised) for Harmony in Context
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Music for Ear Training (with CD-ROM and Workbook)
Listen and Sing: Lessons in Ear-Training and Sight-Singing
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