The Aesthetics of Imperfection in Music and the Arts: Spontaneity, Flaws and the Unfinished

by Andy Hamilton (Editor), Lara Pearson (Editor)

• New

  Hardcover
  2020

  $267.03

  This book explores a central issue in aesthetics: the debate between the rival aesthetics of perfection and imperfection. The aesthetics of imperfection emphasises spontaneity, disruption, process and energy over formal perfection. For many commentators, imperfection is experienced most clearly in improvisatory practices. However, many contributors to this volume challenge that assumption, holding that imperfection is a feature across all kinds of musical performance, whether improvisation or interpretation of compositions. Through a range of contributions, the book addresses the meaning, experience, and value of improvisation and spontaneous creation across different artistic media - including music, visual art, dance, comedy, architecture and design. A distinctive feature of the volume is that it brings together contributions from theoreticians and practitioners, presenting a wider range of perspectives on the issues involved. Contributors look at performance and practice across Western and non-Western musical, artistic and craft forms. Composers and non-performing artists also offer a perspective on what is 'imperfect' or improvisatory within their work, contributing further dimensions to the discourse. The Aesthetics of Imperfection features 39 chapters, written by a diverse group of scholars and performers. It will be essential reading for anyone interested in the philosophy of art and aesthetics.