On Organology: Taxonomy and Transdisciplinarity

Rachael Durkin, Darryl Martin

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

This chapter explores the relationship between organology and arguably its most impactful application: performance studies. The collection and display of obsolete and non-Western musical instruments galvanised domestic collecting of musical instruments for display and performance as well as the emergence of semi-professional collectors. Museums laid modern organology’s foundations by challenging traditional ideals of curation and conservatorship, principally because musical instruments require regular and highly specialised maintenance: many instruments rely on tension to remain intact or on moisture to prevent splitting. The concern organology and performance studies share for the significance of instrument innovation, design, and preferences lies at the heart of their affinity. Developments in musical instrument design and use always belong to cultural contexts and are the product of myriad influences, musical and extramusical. Organologists of all hues would therefore surely acknowledge that classification and the application of organological expertise are now inseparable.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe Routledge Companion to Applied Musicology
EditorsChris Dromey
Place of PublicationLondon
PublisherTaylor & Francis
Chapter24
Pages285-294
Number of pages10
Edition1st
ISBN (Electronic)9781003042983
ISBN (Print)9780367488246
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 19 Sept 2023

Publication series

NameRoutledge Music Companions
PublisherRoutledge

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