The Sonic Self: Musical Subjectivity and Signification

By Naomi Cumming

"Semioticians began by looking at literature but have gradually applied their techniques to other disciplines, including music. The late Naomi Cumming . . . based this consideration of the sources of musical expression on her experiences as a performer--with interesting, if rarely surprising, results." --Choice

Using classical violin music as her principal laboratory, the author examines how a performance incorporates distinctive features not only of the work, but of the performer as well--and how the listener goes about interpreting not only the composer's work and the performer's rendering of the work, but also of the performer's and listener's identities. A richly interdisciplinary approach to a very common, yet persistently mysterious, part of our lives.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0253337542
• ISBN13: 9780253337542
• Release Date: January 2001
• Publisher: Indiana University Press
• Length: 392 Pages
• Weight: 1.66 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.1" x 9.2"
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher