Richard Taruskin wrote large-scale music history and criticism distinguished by close reading, archival research and strong arguments about how music acquires cultural meaning. The Oxford History of Western Music traces art music across several centuries while repeatedly questioning familiar stories of autonomous genius and inevitable stylistic progress. Stravinsky and the Russian Traditions examines the composer's early music through Russian sources, folklore and nationalism, while Text and Act challenges assumptions surrounding historically informed performance and authenticity. Taruskin's essays frequently connect musical choices with politics, institutions and ideology rather than treating works as isolated objects. His prose is learned, combative and often witty, best suited to readers comfortable with extended argument. His work fits musicology, performance history, Russian music and critical history of classical music. Read more Less
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