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Ornette Coleman

The Territory and the Adventure
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( 96 ratings, 14 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Ornette Coleman by Maria Golia delves into the life and work of the iconic jazz musician known for his revolutionary approach to music. The biography explores Coleman's journey from his early years to his groundbreaking contributions to the free jazz movement, highlighting his unique vision, struggles, and lasting impact on the world of music. Through thoughtful analysis, the book provides insight into Coleman's creative genius and his relentless pursuit of artistic freedom.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you're fascinated by groundbreaking musicians and their impact on jazz and modern music. It delves into the life and influence of a visionary artist, capturing the essence of his creativity and the challenges he faced, making it a captivating read for anyone interested in jazz history and innovation.

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The compelling story of one of America's most adventurous jazz musicians.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The compelling story of one of America's most adventurous jazz musicians.

Ornette Coleman's career encompassed the glory years of jazz and the American avant-garde. Born in segregated Fort Worth, Texas, during the Great Depression, the African American composer and musician was the zeitgeist incarnate. Steeped in the Texas blues tradition, Ornette and jazz grew up together, as the brassy blare of big band swing gave way to bebop, a faster music for a faster, post-war world.

At the dawn of the Space Age and New York's 1960s counterculture, his music gave voice to the moment. Lauded by some, maligned by many, he forged a breakaway art sometimes called 'the new thing' or 'free jazz'. Featuring previously unpublished photographs of Ornette and his contemporaries, this is the compelling story of one of America's most adventurous musicians and the sound of a changing world.

'An atlas in prose . . . Golia covers a lot of territory in tight, direct language that illuminates Ornette Coleman's life and work.' β€” David Hajdu, New York Times Book Review

'Opens ears yet further to the transformative power of Coleman's music.' β€” Larry Blumenfeld, Wall Street Journal

'One of the finest books on the power of place and influence in a musician's life.' β€” Andrew Male, Mojo

'Terrific . . . an excellent addition to the ongoing study of one of the greatest improvising musicians of all time.' β€” Pat Metheny, musician, composer, educator

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Maria Golia offers an insightful exploration of Ornette Coleman's life, capturing both his musical innovation and broader cultural impact. The book addresses his complex philosophy of Harmolodics and his unorthodox approach to jazz, providing a vivid depiction of his innate curiosity and defiance of musical norms. Golia contextualises Coleman within his Texan roots and the broader jazz narrative, painting a comprehensive portrait that appeals not only to jazz aficionados but also to general readers interested in a nuanced biography.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781789145601

Publisher: Reaktion Books

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 11 April 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Reaktion Books

Illustration: 90 illustrations

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 138.0mm

Height: 216.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 368

About the Author

Long-time resident of Cairo, Maria Golia is author of several critically acclaimed books dealing with Egypt's present moment and past history. Her recent biography, Ornette Coleman: The Territory and the Adventure (Reaktion, 2020), will appear in paperback in 2022.

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