The study begins with the metaphysics of sound. Scruton distinguishes sound from tone; analyzes rhythm, melody, and harmony; and explores the various dimensions of musical organization and musical meaning. Taking on various fashionable theories in the philosophy and theory of music, he presents a compelling case for the moral significance of music, its place in our culture, and the need for taste and discrimination in performing and listening to it. Laying down principles for musical analysis and criticism, this bold work concludes with a theory of culture--and a devastating demolition of modern popular music.

"A provocative new study."--The Guardian

"[This is] a work of philosophy at its most expansive, light-years removed from the logic-chopping of a generation ago...Scruton, in this ambitious work, has given us a masterly insight into the architecture of tonality and why its 'useless space' matters as a home of the human spirit."--The Times