Peter Lavezzoli

This book is tremendous in the level of detail it takes and the degree to which it explores every connection that Western Music has made with Indian Classical Music in the 20th century. And given that most of the interaction has been happening in the last century or so, its really almost a history of all the interactions, save that of some classical composers. But other than that Lavezolli covers it all.

Most of this book is excellent and very engaging, but some parts tend to drag. I thought the chapter Karuna Supreme just would not end. Another drawback was the book was redundant at parts. Several chapters were clearly based in large part on the interviews the author conducted, which would be included at the end of every chapter. In some cases the interviews offer insight on the chapter and vice versa, but in many cases Lavezolli will write something in the chapter which is represented directly in the interview. This left me with the feeling at times that 'Ugh, why am I reading this twice?' which shifted to a feeling later in the book 'This'll probably be in the interview again...'

Other then those two things I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book.… (mehr)