Charles Avison — An Essay on Musical Expression

London, C. Davis, 1753 . Leather. Illustrated with folding plates of musical notes, this is the uncommon second edition of Charles Avison's influential work of music criticism. The second edition of this work. Illustrated with four folding musical plates. Collated, complete. Charles Avison offers a treatise devoted to musical aesthetics and criticism. In three parts, he examines the nature of musical expression, arguing that the primary purpose of music is to move the passions and emotions rather than merely to display technical skill. ESTC T100989 With half title to the start of the work. As called for, to the rear and with its own pagination, register, half title and title page appears 'A reply to the author of Remarks on the Essay on musical expression. In a letter from Mr. Avison, to his friend in London&apos. With advertisement leaf to the rear. Contemporary ownership name of "G. Taylor" to front pastedown, inscription "The Gift of my worthy Friend the hon. John Grey Esq." to repaired front free endpaper, inscription "P. James, April 28th 1768" to head of title page. Rebacked, retaining original endpapers. The essay discusses the relative importance of melody, harmony, and expression, compares music with painting as an expressive art, and offers critical assessments of contemporary composers Rebacked, in a half calf binding with marbled paper covered boards. Retaining original endpapers. Boards age toned, with rubbing to perimeters. Restoration to front free endpaper. Inscription to front pastedown, front free endpaper and following leaf, and title page head. Internally, firmly bound. Pages lightly age toned, but clean. Minor repairs to K8 and L1. Good . Ill.: None. Good .