I begin with the proviso that, when discussing “evolution” in this book,I am, unless otherwise stated, referring toDarwin’s theory of evolution bynatural selection. This will be defined more formally in §1.5.1. As will bediscussed in §1.8, other theories of evolution have been developed, but thesewill not figure extensively here. At first thought, evolution might seem tobear little rela…
Music is a mobile art. When people move to faraway places, whether by choice or by force, they bring their music along. Music creates a meaningful point of contact for individuals and for groups; it can encourage curiosity and foster understanding; and it can preserve a sense of identity and comfort in an unfamiliar or hostile environment. As music crosses cultural, linguistic, and political bo…