How Has Music Evolved? A Brand-New Music History Book 'The Evolution of Humans and Music' by Composer Yoshihiko Sano Chronicles the 'Revolution of Sound' from the Composer's Perspective, Now Available

How has the music we hear every day evolved into its current form?

Today, June 17, Shinchosha New Books released 'The Evolution of Humans and Music,' a new book by composer Yoshihiko Sano, who has been active in creating music for dramas and stage productions. From the perspective of a practicing artist, Sano clearly illustrates the grand 'history of sonic revolution.'

Every day, in various places, we encounter diverse music. But what exactly is music? And why has the sound echoing through our streets today evolved into this particular form?

'The Evolution of Humans and Music,' released on June 17 by Shinchosha New Books, retells the grand history of music—always intertwined with humanity—from the origins of bipedalism to the future of AI-generated music, with a special focus on pivotal turning points.

This book offers a journey through the evolution of humans and music, distinct from the dull, conventional histories taught in music classes—readable like a compelling narrative.

[From the Table of Contents]

Introduction: On Earth's Music

1. Bipedalism and the Origins of Music

2. Musical Temperament and Scales

3. Harmony

4. Bach, Musical Notation, and the Harpsichord

5. Beethoven and the Enlightenment Era

6. Music and Modernism

7. Technology and Popular Music

8. Automated Music Generation

Conclusion: The Sound of Existence

[Book Description]

What is music? It's so commonplace, like air, that we might never have thought about it. Yet, by tracing the 'evolution' of the music we hear around us, we uncover a fresh and rich world of art that resonates across science, philosophy, and the human psyche. From the origins of music with bipedal humans to the geniuses who sparked dramatic revolutions, and on to visions of the future shaped by AI—this is a completely new history of music, narrating the highlights of a journey spanning tens of thousands of years from a composer's perspective.

[Author Profile] Yoshihiko Sano (Sano Yoshihiko)

Born in 1954 (Showa 29) in Shizuoka Prefecture. Composer. Dropped out of the Faculty of Law at Doshisha University, completed graduate studies at Seiho University, and holds a Master's degree in Health Sciences. He is active in composing music for dramas and stage productions and has been involved in the development of various music generation systems. He also serves as a part-time lecturer at Nagoya City University Medical School and Nagoya Institute of Technology Graduate School.

[Book Details]

[Title] The Evolution of Humans and Music

[Author] Yoshihiko Sano

[Release Date] June 17

[Format] Paperback New Book

[Price] ¥1,144 (tax included)

[ISBN] 978-4-10-611126-6

[URL] https://www.shinchosha.co.jp/book/611126/