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Ten Centuries of Performed Narrative: SOAS Studies in Music

James Hayes

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Published in Japanese Singers Of Tales: Ten Centuries Of Performed Narrative (SOAS Studies In Music)

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Performed narrative is a genre of musical storytelling that has existed for centuries. It is a unique form of expression that combines music, storytelling, and performance. Performed narrative can be found in cultures around the world, and it has taken many different forms over the centuries.

The field of study known as SOAS Studies in Music focuses on the study of performed narrative. SOAS stands for the School of Oriental and African Studies, and it is a world-renowned institution for the study of music from around the globe. SOAS Studies in Music offers a comprehensive overview of the field, and it explores the various forms, techniques, and cultural contexts that have shaped this unique genre of musical storytelling.

The earliest forms of performed narrative can be traced back to oral traditions. In many cultures, storytellers would entertain audiences with tales of heroes, gods, and monsters. These stories were often accompanied by music, and they would be passed down from generation to generation.

Japanese Singers of Tales: Ten Centuries of Performed Narrative (SOAS Studies in Music)

by Alison McQueen Tokita

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13978 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	534 pages

Over time, performed narrative began to be written down. This allowed for stories to be preserved and shared more widely. Written performed narrative can be found in a variety of sources, including religious texts, literary works, and historical documents.

In the modern era, performed narrative has continued to evolve. New technologies have allowed for new forms of storytelling, such as multimedia performance and interactive storytelling. Performed narrative is now a global phenomenon, and it can be found in a wide variety of settings, from concert halls to theaters to online platforms.

Performed narrative can take many different forms. Some of the most common forms include:

Epic poetry: Epics are long poems that tell stories of heroes and gods. They are often performed in a grand style, and they can be accompanied by music, dance, and other forms of performance.
Ballads: Ballads are shorter poems that tell stories of love, loss, and adventure. They are often sung in a simple style, and they can be accompanied by a variety of instruments.
Folktales: Folktales are stories that are passed down orally from generation to generation. They often feature magical creatures and events, and they can be used to teach lessons about life and morality.
Legends: Legends are stories that are based on historical events or people. They are often told in a way that makes them seem larger than life, and they can be used to celebrate the achievements of a particular group or individual.
Myths: Myths are stories that explain the origins of the world and the natural world. They are often filled with symbolism and allegory, and they can be used to provide a deeper understanding of human nature.

Performed narrative can also be used in a variety of different ways. Some of the most common uses include:

Entertainment: Performed narrative is often used to entertain audiences. It can be used to tell stories, make people laugh, or simply provide a pleasant experience.
Education: Performed narrative can also be used to educate audiences. It can be used to teach about history, culture, and other important topics.
Ritual: Performed narrative can also be used for ritual purposes. It can be used to mark important events, to celebrate holidays, or to connect with the divine.

Performed narrative is a global phenomenon, and it can be found in a wide variety of cultural contexts. Some of the most common cultural contexts include:

Africa: Performed narrative is a vital part of African culture. It is used to tell stories, teach lessons, and celebrate the achievements of the African people.
Asia: Performed narrative is also a major part of Asian culture. It is used to tell stories of gods, heroes, and demons.
Europe: Performed narrative has a long and rich history in Europe. It is used to tell stories of kings, queens, and knights.
The Americas: Performed narrative is also found in the Americas. It is used to tell stories of Native Americans, European settlers, and African slaves.
Oceania: Performed narrative is also found in Oceania. It is used to tell stories of the Dreamtime, the creation of the world, and the adventures of the gods.

Performed narrative has been a major force for intercultural exchange throughout history. It has been used to spread ideas, cultures, and religions from one part of the world to another. For example, the epic poem The Odyssey was originally written in Greek, but it has been translated into many different languages and performed by people from all over the world.

In the modern era, intercultural exchange is more important than ever. Performed narrative can be used to promote understanding and cooperation between different cultures. It can also be used to preserve and celebrate the diversity of human expression.

Performed narrative is a vibrant and ever-evolving genre. New technologies are allowing for new forms of storytelling, and new audiences are being reached. Some of the contemporary trends in performed narrative include:

Multimedia performance: Multimedia performance combines music, storytelling, and other forms of performance to create a unique and immersive experience.
Interactive storytelling: Interactive storytelling allows audiences to participate in the story. This can be done through a variety of methods, such as asking questions, making choices, or even performing on stage.
Global collaboration: Performed narrative is now being created by people from all over the world. This is leading to a new era of intercultural exchange and understanding.

Performed narrative is a rich and diverse genre of musical storytelling. It has been around for centuries, and it continues to evolve and adapt to new technologies and audiences. SOAS Studies in Music offers a comprehensive overview of this field, and it explores the various forms, techniques, and cultural contexts that have shaped performed narrative.

Japanese Singers of Tales: Ten Centuries of Performed Narrative (SOAS Studies in Music)

by Alison McQueen Tokita

5 out of 5