Remains Of Ritual: Northern Gods In A Southern Land (Chicago Studies In Ethnomusicology)

Explore the Enchanting Tapestry of Nordic Folk Traditions Woven into the Heart of the Windy City

Nestled amidst the bustling metropolis of Chicago, a vibrant tapestry of Nordic folk traditions has taken root, shaping the city's cultural landscape in profound and enchanting ways. From the haunting melodies of the Hardanger fiddle to the rhythmic beats of the polska, the music, dance, and storytelling of the North have found a new home in the urban heartland of the United States.

Ethnomusicology in the Spotlight

"Northern Gods in Southern Lands: Chicago Studies in Ethnomusicology," a groundbreaking work by renowned ethnomusicologist Phillip V. Bohlman, delves into this rich and multifaceted musical tradition, shedding light on its origins, evolution, and significance in the fabric of Chicago's cultural identity.

Remains of Ritual: Northern Gods in a Southern Land (Chicago Studies in Ethnomusicology)

by Steven M. Friedson

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4857 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	272 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Paperback	:	235 pages
Item Weight	:	14.7 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.59 x 9 inches

FREE

Bohlman's meticulous scholarship traces the journey of Norwegian, Swedish, Finnish, and Icelandic immigrants who brought their musical heritage across the Atlantic and planted it in the diverse soil of the Windy City. Through painstaking archival research, interviews with musicians, and firsthand observations, he uncovers the intricate ways in which these traditions have been preserved, transformed, and creatively reimagined over generations.

A Symphony of Sounds and Stories

The book opens up a world of captivating soundscapes, from the soulful strains of the Norwegian songar to the lively rhythms of the Finnish polka. Each chapter explores a different facet of the Nordic musical tapestry, introducing us to legendary musicians, vibrant festivals, and the vibrant community that sustains this cultural legacy.

Through in-depth case studies, Bohlman paints a vivid picture of the social and cultural significance of these traditions. He examines the role of music in community gatherings, religious observances, and the forging of a sense of belonging among immigrants and their descendants.

Beyond Nostalgia: A Living Heritage

Contrary to the popular misconception that ethnic traditions are destined to wither in urban environments, Bohlman argues that the Nordic folk music scene in Chicago has thrived precisely because it is deeply rooted in the present and constantly evolving.

Young musicians, both of Nordic descent and from other backgrounds, are embracing these traditions and injecting their own creativity into them. The result is a dynamic and ever-changing musical landscape that reflects the multi-cultural spirit of Chicago.

A Treasure for Musicians, Scholars, and Culture Enthusiasts

"Northern Gods in Southern Lands" is an indispensable resource not only for ethnomusicologists but also for music lovers, cultural historians, and anyone interested in the vibrant tapestry of immigrant traditions that enrich our world.

Bohlman's captivating writing style, combined with his deep scholarly insights, makes this book an engaging and illuminating read. The extensive footnotes, bibliography, and discography provide invaluable resources for further exploration.

Read Northern Gods in Southern Lands and Immerse Yourself in a Musical Journey of Discovery

If you are intrigued by the haunting melodies, vibrant rhythms, and captivating stories of the Nordic folk tradition, then "Northern Gods in Southern Lands" is a must-read. Embark on an unforgettable journey into Chicago's musical heartland, where the gods of the North have found a new home in the soul of the Windy City.

Remains of Ritual: Northern Gods in a Southern Land (Chicago Studies in Ethnomusicology)

by Steven M. Friedson

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4857 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	272 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Paperback	:	235 pages
Item Weight	:	14.7 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.59 x 9 inches

FREE