This volume celebrates the rich and varied musical heritage of Africa. In the first of two parts, "Music in African Life," eight prominent ethnomusicologists contribute essays ranging from Gerhard Kubik's seminal study of the lamellophone to Cynthia Tse Kimberlin's examination of musical change and adaptation in Ethiopia during the 1990s. Part two, "Africa and the Diaspora: Cross-Cultural Influences," features ten essays tracing the legacy of African traditions in the Americas, as well as elaborating on connections with music of the Arab Gulf. The essays are amply illustrated and are followed by full-color illustrations of African musical instruments.