The Music of Malaysia, first published in Malay in 1997 and followed by an English edition in 2004 is still the only history, appreciation and analysis of Malaysian music in its many and varied forms available in English. The book categorizes the types of music genres found in Malaysian society and provides an overview of the development of music in that country. Analyses of the music are illustrated with many examples transcribed from original field recordings. Genres discussed include theatrical and dance forms, percussion ensembles, vocal and instrumental music and classical music. It is an excellent introduction to and exploration of the country's vibrant musical culture.
This new, fully revised and updated edition includes time lines, listening guides and downloadable resources of field recordings that are analysed and discussed in the text.
This new, fully revised and updated edition includes time lines, listening guides and downloadable resources of field recordings that are analysed and discussed in the text.
Reviews of first edition:
'... an important addition to the literature on Southeast Asian performing arts. It is indispensable as a reference book for all serious students of Malaysian music and culture, and will provide scholars interested in the performance cultures of other Asian countries with vivid comparators and points of connection and exchange.' Aseasuk News
'... this book will serve as an excellent sourcebook or textbook for courses on the music of Southeast Asia.' Asian Folklore Studies
'This useful book by two respected specialists is the first to encompass the folk, classical and syncretic music genres of Malaysia...There is no other source comparable for Malaysia, and thus this is an extremely valuable contribution.... a useful teaching tool and source of information on the major musical genres of Malaysia.' Ethnomusicology Forum
'This study is well-written, informative and an excellent resource for seminal work with under- and post-graduate students...The book is very well-edited, includes several pictures and gives many musical examples. A long bibliography and an exhaustive index round off the impression that this overview on Malaysian music is a very useful book indeed...' Asien
'... an important addition to the literature on Southeast Asian performing arts. It is indispensable as a reference book for all serious students of Malaysian music and culture, and will provide scholars interested in the performance cultures of other Asian countries with vivid comparators and points of connection and exchange.' Aseasuk News
'... this book will serve as an excellent sourcebook or textbook for courses on the music of Southeast Asia.' Asian Folklore Studies
'This useful book by two respected specialists is the first to encompass the folk, classical and syncretic music genres of Malaysia...There is no other source comparable for Malaysia, and thus this is an extremely valuable contribution.... a useful teaching tool and source of information on the major musical genres of Malaysia.' Ethnomusicology Forum
'This study is well-written, informative and an excellent resource for seminal work with under- and post-graduate students...The book is very well-edited, includes several pictures and gives many musical examples. A long bibliography and an exhaustive index round off the impression that this overview on Malaysian music is a very useful book indeed...' Asien