Essays on musical performance practice by an acknowledged expert in the field. These selected essays by conductor Andrew Parrott reflect the thinking behind some four decades of his ground-breaking performances and recordings. Bringing together seminal writings on the performance expectations of, amongst others, Monteverdi, Purcell and J. S. Bach, this volume also includes the full version of a major new article calling into question the presumed historical place of the 'countertenor' voice. Focusing primarily on vocal and choral matters, the time span is broad (some five centuries) and the essays multifarious (from extensive scholarly articles to radio broadcasts). Authoritative, provocative and readable, Parrott's writing is packed with information of valueto scholars, performers, students and curious listeners alike. ANDREW PARROTT is the founder and director of the Taverner Consort, Choir and Players. His book The Essential Bach Choir (The Boydell Press, 2000) has been acclaimed as 'a brilliant piece of research' (BBC Radio 3); 'utterly fascinating' (Gramophone); and 'a document which will itself no doubt be a subject of study for years to come' (Times Literary Supplement).

"This volume contains a great deal of food for thought for performers of all kinds, both vocal and instrumental." - THE CONSORT

"A collection of Andrew Parrott's writings ... is bound to be something out of the ordinary, and this book does not disappoint. Its erudition, energy and thoroughness are staggering, and its vehemence in supporting important musicological theses results in a wonderful resource for anyone thinking further about its topics." - THE MUSICAL TIMES

"An incalculably valuable contribution to some of the most important debates in early music ... an immensely important book, one that demands to be read by all who practise early music." - EARLY MUSIC TODAY

"One of the leading members of a particularly influential generation of musician/scholars ... Parrott remains an essential component of the early music world. Hence the importance of his latest book; [T]his eminently approachable and readable book will appeal to a wide variety of readers; [E]ssential reading for performing musicians, and a very worthwhile addition to the knowledge base of the listening public...virtually anyone playing, enjoying or studying will find it invaluable." - EARLY MUSIC REVIEW

"This generous and impressive volume'; a 'handsome and affordable paperback edition, one which will do much to stimulate debate in early music'; 'unity of purpose and clarity of message'; 'Parrott's arguments are coolly logical'; 'Parrott's theory is uncomfortably convincing'; 'The writing is buoyant, urgent and enjoyable." - GRAMOPHONE

"[A] provocative yet highly readable collection of writings. A delight. 4 Stars." - BBC MUSIC