Background Noise follows the development of sound as an artistic medium and illustrates how sound is put to use within modes of composition; installation; and performance. While chronological in its structure; Brandon LaBelles book is informed by spatial thinking - weaving architecture; environments; and the specifics of location into the work of sound; with the aim of formulating an expansive history and understanding of sound art. At its center the book presupposes an intrinsic relation between sound and its location; galvanizing acoustics; sound phenomena; and the environmental with the tensions inherent in what LaBelle identifies as sounds relational dynamic. For the author; this is embedded within sounds tendency to become public expressed in its ability to travel distances; foster cultural expression; and define spaces while being radically flexible.This second expanded edition includes a new chapter on the non-human and subnatural tendencies in sound art; revisions to the text as well as a new preface by the author. Intersecting material analysis with theoretical frameworks spanning art and architectural theory; performance studies and media theory; Background Noise makes the case that sound and sound art are central to understandings of contemporary culture.
#3608705 in eBooks 2014-12-17 2014-12-17File Name: B00R51EEHW
Review
33 of 35 people found the following review helpful. Unique; groundbreaking; comprehensiveBy David L. FultonDr. Schoenbaums remarkable and comprehensive book about the violin and the network of cultural and commercial institutions that has grown up around it; is truly groundbreaking.As a violin collector; I am more than moderately familiar with the world of violin experts; competent or sham; and of violin dealers; honest or venal. This book is the first Ive seen that addresses the underbelly of the violin world accurately and competently.Dr. Schoenbaums research tapped the expertise of violin world insiders directly. I first heard of his project when my friend; Robert Bein; the late; great Chicago violin expert and dealer; told me that Dr. Schoenbaum was "the real deal"; a serious researcher seeking accurate information (as opposed; I suppose; to a yellow journalist seeking sensation). I know that Bein and many other fiddle-world luminaries spent hours and hours with Dr. Shoenbaum educating him on the twists and turns and lore of the violin trade. I believe this book is unique in that it enjoyed the active cooperation and trust of those who really are involved in the violin business.Of course; "The Violn" goes far beyond a mere discussion of the violin trade. It is also presents the fascinating history of the instruments development; the incredible genius of the early Cremonese makers; the colorful personalities of artists that perform on the violin; and the unique significance of the instrument as a totem of Western culture.Oh; and did I mention that the book is entertaining; witty and exceedingly well written?0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. What an amazing instrument; and an equally amazing bookBy George N. WellsWhat is a violin? An acoustic box with a neck; strings and bridge. Schoenbaum lays out a non-linear history in a subject by subject format. Inside each topic he leaps through the centuries and skips through the decades to make salient points about the instrument; how it is made; played; bought and sold; and generally dealt with in society. The book is filled with all kinds and sorts of facts about the instrument; and all things about it. For example I own a "Mittenwald Strad" with inlay decorations. I learned that the makers; used a facsimile of a Strad label that also say made in Germany; not to confuse the buyer but inform him of the Strad copied. Also; the inlay decorations are called "Intarsia." There is a lot here for the person interested in the instrument.4 of 5 people found the following review helpful. "Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Violin Origins"By granny1I have played the violin for many years and now have two talented granddaughters who not only play this fabulous instrument but perform all over the City of New York!Many years ago I read a marvelous book that I think was called "The Violin Hunter." I have been looking for it now for several decades to no avail.When I found this new book; I was hoping it would be much like the beloved book I have unable to locate. Well; I am happy to say that this new book is truly amazing! I agree with many of the other reviewers regarding the first 100 pages. This is a very complete history that takes time to plow through. As a lover of books; who reads a book every day or two; it took some pacing to get into the "meat" of this volume. It has been well worth the effort. I have had to put it aside several times in order to read several other books that came to my attention. However; I find myself thinking about the content of Mr. Schoenbaums book and cant wait to finish it. It is truly wonderful reading even if you have never picked up the instrument. If you have enjoyed playing a violin or just love to listen to the music produced by those who really have the "gift;" I cant recommend this book more. A Terrific Read!!!
