General Introduction to Western Piano Music

Author: Zhang Shigu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-02-01
Features: An Introduction to Western Piano Music begins by examining early keyboard instruments and the invention and development of the piano, tracing back to the keyboard music of the late European Middle Ages and the Renaissance. It then follows the chronological progression through the Baroque period, the Classical period, the Romantic period, and modern music, discussing the evolution of Western piano music styles and performance techniques. Especially through the introduction of major piano works by important composers from various countries, it explores the characteristics of musical language in different periods, the formation of musical styles, and their influence on later musical development. The book primarily focuses on stringed keyboard music. Due to its broad coverage, it includes major composers of keyboard music from the late Middle Ages to modern piano music (some of whom are still alive today). It is impossible to provide a detailed analysis and introduction for every composer or work, which determines that this book is only partially introductory in nature. We hope that within this limited space, readers can gain a relatively comprehensive understanding of piano music styles and piano literature, making this book not only a required reading for piano majors but also a useful reference for professional pianists and piano music enthusiasts.