An anthology of essays and occasional pieces, written over a period of 24 years. Ushi Kak's pieces have appeared on the editorial pages of national newspapers like The Times of India and The Indian Express and in some leading news magazines like Outlook. She has a blog on WordPress under the pseudonym kashpundit, a name chosen to indicate her provenance and her penchant for puns and wordplay. “Funny, sad, and often eye-opening, these pieces are an entertaining read.” – Shashi Tharoor, Member Parliament, Author “Often hilarious, always mischievous but never malicious this is an enjoyable read for even the most staid … And a repeated heartbeat in this wonderland is the pathos of the human spirit symbolized by the joy and the sorrow of what has become of Ushi’s homeland, Kashmir. An engaging read, an experience!” – Wajahat Habibullah, Former Chief Information Commissioner, Government of India “Ushi Kak serves up a delightful soufflé combining humour and sensitivity with which to entice the literary palate. Bon appetite! Cheers.” – Jug Suraiya, Satirist and former Associate Editor of The Times of India
This book addresses core questions about the role of materials in general and of wood in particular in the construction of string instruments used in the modern symphony orchestra – violins, violas, cellos and basses. Further attention is given to materials for classical guitars, harps, harpsichords and pianos. While some of the approaches discussed are traditional, most of them depend upon new scientific approaches to the study of the structure of materials, such as for example wood cell structure, which is visible only using modern high resolution microscopic techniques. Many examples of modern and classical instruments are examined, together with the relevance of classical techniques for the treatment of wood. Composite materials, especially designed for soundboards could be a good substitute for some traditional wood species. The body and soundboard of the instrument are of major importance for their acoustical properties, but the study also examines traditional and new wood species used for items such as bows, the instrument neck, string pegs, etc. Wood species’ properties for musical instruments and growth origins of woods used by great makers such as Antonio Stradivari are examined and compared with more recently grown woods available to current makers. The role of varnish in the appearance and acoustics of the final instrument is also discussed, since it has often been proposed as a ‘secret ingredient’ used by great makers. Aspects related to strings are commented.As well as discussing these subjects, with many illustrations from classical and contemporary instruments, the book gives attention to conservation and restoration of old instruments and the physical results of these techniques. There is also discussion of the current value of old instruments both for modern performances and as works of art having great monetary value.The book will be of interest and value to researchers, advanced students, music historians, and contemporary string instrument makers. Musicians in general, particularly those playing string instruments, will also find its revelations fascinating. It will also attract the attention of those using wood for a variety of other purposes, for its use in musical instruments uncovers many of its fundamental features. Professor Neville H. FletcherAustralian National University, Canberra
This book offers an in-depth analysis of the many components of guitar tone. How does an ash body differ from alder? Which bridge hardware maximizes body resonance? How do Gibson P-90 pickups differ from Fender Jazzmaster pickups? Designed for veterans and beginners alike, "Electric Guitar Sound" helps any player understand the myriad kinds of wood, hardware, and electronics available and pick a guitar with a tone and feel that is just right for them.
The setup, maintenance, and restoration of the five-string banjo. An indispensable guide for the amateur as well as the professional repair person. Every procedure is clearly explained and illustrated with detailed photographs and diagrams.
The Tipbook Series books are handy, accessible, thorough and convenient guides for players who want to get the most out of their instrument. They are written in collaboration with and proofread by musicians, teachers, technicians and other experts - for beginners, students and advanced players. Features include: lessons, teachers and practicing * all jargon explained * basic background information * price indications * the history and the family of the instrument * and more. "Provides access to the kind of knowledge a professional cellist would accumulate over the years. Comprehensive, concise and written in straight-forward language." (Stringendo) "Each Tipbook volume is small in size but rich in information, suitable for students and professionals." (Muzik Etc) "Concise but detailed advice; clear and crisply written. Billing itself as the reference manual for both beginning and advanced cellists, the book comes pretty darn close to its claim." (Kindler Cello Society Newsletter)
The story of the banjo's journey from Africa to the western hemisphere blends music, history, and a union of cultures. In Banjo Roots and Branches, Robert B. Winans presents cutting-edge scholarship that covers the instrument's West African origins and its adaptations and circulation in the Caribbean and United States. The contributors provide detailed ethnographic and technical research on gourd lutes and ekonting in Africa and the banza in Haiti while also investigating tuning practices and regional playing styles. Other essays place the instrument within the context of slavery, tell the stories of black banjoists, and shed light on the banjo's introduction into the African- and Anglo-American folk milieus. Wide-ranging and illustrated with twenty color images, Banjo Roots and Branches offers a wealth of new information to scholars of African American and folk musics as well as the worldwide community of banjo aficionados. Contributors: Greg C. Adams, Nick Bamber, Jim Dalton, George R. Gibson, Chuck Levy, Shlomo Pestcoe, Pete Ross, Tony Thomas, Saskia Willaert, and Robert B. Winans.
