The Rest is Noise - Listening to the Twentieth Century - Alex Ross

The Rest is Noise: Listening to the Twentieth Century

In his groundbreaking book, Alex Ross takes readers on a journey through the musical landscape of the twentieth century, exploring the major movements and figures that shaped the era's sound. From the birth of atonality to the rise of electronic music, Ross paints a vivid picture of a century of musical innovation and experimentation.

A New Way of Listening

Ross's book is not simply a history of twentieth-century music; it is also a meditation on the nature of listening itself. He argues that the way we listen to music has changed dramatically over the past century, and that this has had a profound impact on the way we experience and understand it.

In the early twentieth century, music was primarily experienced live, in concert halls or opera houses. This meant that listeners were more likely to be focused on the performance itself, rather than on the individual sounds or instruments. As the century progressed, however, recorded music became increasingly popular, and this allowed listeners to listen to music in a more private and intimate setting. This, in turn, led to a greater focus on the individual sounds and textures of music, and a greater appreciation for the complexity and diversity of the music of the twentieth century.

The Major Movements and Figures of the Twentieth Century

Ross's book covers a wide range of musical movements and figures, from the early pioneers of atonality, such as Arnold Schoenberg and Alban Berg, to the experimentalists of the 1950s and 1960s, such as John Cage and Pierre Boulez. He also explores the rise of popular music, from the birth of jazz to the explosion of rock and roll.

Throughout the book, Ross provides insightful and engaging commentary on the music he discusses. He is particularly good at explaining complex musical concepts in a clear and accessible way, making his book a valuable resource for both music lovers and casual listeners alike.

A Must-Read for Music Lovers

The Rest is Noise is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of twentieth-century music. It is a beautifully written and thought-provoking book that will change the way you think about music.

Why You Should Buy This Book

If you are a music lover, then you need to buy this book. It is an essential guide to the music of the twentieth century, and it will give you a new appreciation for the complexity and diversity of this era's music.

The Rest is Noise is also a great read for anyone interested in the history of culture. It shows how music has reflected and shaped the major social and political changes of the twentieth century.

Whether you are a casual listener or a serious music lover, The Rest is Noise is a book that you will enjoy and learn from.