Music Notation

by Gardner Read

Offers information on traditional and idiomatic notation for all instruments and voices and provides instructions for writing music manuscripts, scores, and parts.

Genres: Music, Reference, Nonfiction

368 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1969

Reviews

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was one of the most difficult books on notation I have ever read. All of the musical notation possibilities up to 1979 are covered in detail. It took me a while to get certain concepts but after a while I started to be less overwhelmed. This was particularly true for the detailed study of rhythm notation. I would suggest that reader's go over one chapter at a time, really pay attention to the details and take notes. Also this book is a great music reference to keep for any advanced difficulties that come up when learning a piece. Overall a useful, if not overly enjoyable, book.

[Stephanie C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very useful for the writing of my book of harp arrangements. Every arranger or composer should take a look. I didn't read it from cover to cover, but did read most of the sections pertaining to general music notation, plus the harp section.

[Colleen Crayton · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF. Learned some interesting things, but it was mostly common sense. Stopped reading because I am no longer considering work in music editing.

[Wain Parham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is THE book on notation. Have some bizarre extended technique and not sure how it should be written? Check here. Want an official ruling on how a turn should be handled? Check here.

This book is extensive, thorough, and covers even the smallest details about notation for clarity as well as symbol definitions. An absolute MUST for any serious composer.

[Mark · Rating 2 out of 5]

I somehow own a copy of this. I mean honestly I have not read the book. It's something you look at now and again like a dictionary. Seriously people? You can honestly say you read this cover to cover? I got my copy back when I was studying music at the University of New Mexico probably. I actually don't remember

[Grant Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent reference.