Expert writers present the major traditions of North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, together with personal accounts of performers, composers, teachers, and ceremonies. A special feature of this volume is the inclusion of dozens of brief snap-shot essays that offer "lifestories" of typical musicmakers and their art, as well as first-person descriptions of specific music performances and events. Also includes maps and music examples.
Virginia Danielson Book order


- 2002
- 1998
The Voice of Egypt
- 288 pages
- 11 hours of reading
Umm Kulthum was a celebrated musical performer in the Arab world, and her songs still permeate the international airwaves. This, the first English- language biography, chronicles her life and career. In particular, it examines her success in a society which discouraged women from public performance.