History of Performing Pitch - by Bruce Haynes (Hardcover)

About the Book

This is the first complete survey of the historical pitch standards used by musicians during the last four centuries. Written from a practical perspective and addressed to performers it is the first book to attach frequency values to pitch names and describe where, when, and w...

Book Synopsis

This is the first complete survey of the historical pitch standards used by musicians during the last four centuries. Written from a practical perspective and addressed to performers it is the first book to attach frequency values to pitch names and describe where, when, and why various historical pitch levels were used. It surveys a period from the 16th century to the present and focuses on Italy, France, Germany, the northern and southern Netherlands, and the Habsburg Lands, following the developments in the design and function of instruments and how they influenced and were influenced by pitch changes.

Review Quotes

...an essential companion for performers who wish to consider not just the pitch at which a piece of music might have been performed but how the singers and players of the time might have perceived and adjusted to it....the book is rich in detail as well as having a broad sweep....it is worth every penny and deserves the widest circulation.

One of the most important books in the field of musicology and organology to have been released for many years...The book is essential reading for any maker or player who has an interest in learning more about the various pitch standards in use over the past five centuries, and the information it contains will help provide them with insights into how their instruments should play.

The book is laid out logically and evidence is offered and discussed in a methodical way.

This work is an important and useful contribution to the literature. It will be valuable for practical consultation and also as a stimulus-a point of departure-for future exploration of this complex but essential subject.

About the Author

Bruce Haynes was a part-time teacher at the University of Montreal. He published nearly 50 articles, a bibliography of oboe repertoire, and The Eloquent Oboe (2001).