Ways of Hearing: Reflections on Music in 26 Pieces

Musicians, artists, scientists, thinkers, poets, and more explore the influence of music on their lives and work in Ways of Hearing. The book includes personal essays, conversations, improvisatory meditations, poetry, and visual art, spanning a range of musical genres and styles.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2023
Publisher: Princeton University Press

Contributors to Ways of Hearing include:
Laurie Anderson
Jamie Barton
Daphne A. Brooks
Edgar Choueiri
Jeff Dolven
Gustavo Dudamel
Edward Dusinberre
Corinna da Fonseca-Wollheim
Frank Gehry
James Ginsburg
Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Jane Hirshfield
Pico Iyer
Alexander Kluge
Nathaniel Mackey
Maureen N. McLane
Alicia Hall Moran
Jason Moran
Paul Muldoon
Elaine Pagels
Robert Pinsky
Richard Powers
Brian Seibert
Arnold Steinhardt
Susan Stewart
Abigail Washburn
Carrie Mae Weems
Susan Wheeler
C. K. Williams
Wu Fei

Ways of Hearing is a remarkable anthology that delves into the profound influence of music on the lives and work of a diverse range of exceptional individuals. From renowned musicians and artists to esteemed scientists, thinkers, poets, and Supreme Court justice, this collection brings together a constellation of creative spirits who have been captivated by the power of music.

The book is organized into four sections, each exploring a different facet of the musical experience. The first section, "Ways of Hearing," offers personal essays and conversations that shed light on the profound impact of music on the lives and work of the contributors. These narratives range from Laurie Anderson's meditations on Handel to Arnold Steinhardt's thoughts on Beethoven's Grosse Fuge, and they showcase the diverse ways in which music resonates with individuals across different genres and disciplines.

The second section, "Conversations and Interviews," features in-depth interviews with the contributors, allowing them to share their insights and experiences with music. These conversations cover a wide range of topics, from the creative process to the emotional resonance of music, and they provide a deeper understanding of the ways in which music shapes and influences the lives of these remarkable individuals.

The third section, "Improvisatory Meditations," presents a series of improvisatory performances by musicians and artists, showcasing the ways in which music can inspire and facilitate creative expression. These meditations, which range from jazz improvisations to classical compositions, demonstrate the boundless possibilities of music as a medium for artistic exploration.

The final section, "Poetry and Visual Art," combines the words of poets and visual artists with the music of the contributors. This section showcases the symbiotic relationship between music and the visual arts, as artists interpret and respond to the musical compositions of their fellow contributors, creating a rich tapestry of artistic expression.

Contributors to Ways of Hearing include a constellation of luminaries, including Laurie Anderson, Jamie Barton, Daphne A. Brooks, Edgar Choueiri, Jeff Dolven, Gustavo Dudamel, Edward Dusinberre, Corinna da Fonseca-Wollheim, Frank Gehry, James Ginsburg, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Jane Hirshfield, Pico Iyer, Alexander Kluge, Nathaniel Mackey, Maureen N. McLane, Alicia Hall Moran, Jason Moran, Paul Muldoon, Elaine Pagels, Robert Pinsky, Richard Powers, Brian Seibert, Arnold Steinhardt, Susan Stewart, Abigail Washburn, Carrie Mae Weems, Susan Wheeler, C. K. Williams, and Wu Fei. Each contributor brings their unique perspective and expertise to the book, contributing to its rich and diverse content.

In conclusion, Ways of Hearing is a captivating anthology that offers a profound exploration of the influence of music on the lives and work of extraordinary individuals. Through personal essays, conversations, improvisatory meditations, poetry, and visual art, this book showcases the diverse ways in which music shapes and inspires creativity, emotion, and intellectual inquiry. Whether you are a music lover, artist, or simply someone who appreciates the power of creativity, this book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to understand the profound impact of music on our shared human experience.

Weight: 212g
Dimension: 215 x 141 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691230689