Known affectionately as "The Red Book," Bruno Nettl's The Study of Ethnomusicology became a classic upon its original publication in 1983. Scholars and students alike have hailed it not just for its insights but for a disarming, witty style able to engage and entertain even casual readers while providing essential grounding in the field. In this third edition, Nettl revises the text throughout, adding new chapters and discussions that take into account recent developments across the field and reflecting on how his thinking has changed or even reversed itself during his sixty-year career. An updated bibliography rounds out the volume.
Bruno Nettl Book order
Bruno Nettl is a distinguished scholar whose work bridges musicology and anthropology. As an internationally renowned ethnomusicologist, he has profoundly shaped the study of music within cultural contexts. His extensive writings explore the intricate connections between human societies and their diverse musical expressions, offering deep insights into the universal yet varied nature of musicality.




- 2015
- 2014
Music in Primitive Culture
- 220 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Exploring the role of music in early societies, this book delves into how primitive cultures utilized sound as a vital form of expression and communication. It examines the social, spiritual, and ritualistic functions of music, highlighting its significance in community bonding and cultural identity. Through various examples, the text reveals the deep connections between music and the human experience in ancient times.
- 2013
Focusing on Bruno Nettl's personal journey, this book explores his experiences and education in the field of ethnomusicology. It offers insights into his development as a scholar and the evolution of the discipline, highlighting the interplay between music, culture, and identity. Through his narrative, readers gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced on the path to becoming an ethnomusicologist, as well as the richness of diverse musical traditions.
- 2010
A highly personal narrative on the evolution of the field