Classical music

Description

I have watched with close interest the development of this book from its very early stages of planning, as I was extremely sympathetic to John Stanley's intention to set the lives of great composers in the broadest possible context. All too often we read about them with reference only to their fellow musicians and to their own world of music. How much more interesting it is, therefore, to see the effect upon them of the other arts and disciplines of their times. Virtually all great composers have left us evidence, in letters and writings, of their interest in and often passion for these other art forms. Many of them have written works specifically influenced by great buildings, wonderful paintings or works of literature, political actions, or religious celebrations. Events of history as well as changes in fashion and thinking can all be witnessed in music, once it is examined in the context of the world at large at the time it was written. In this way, classical music can be seen as an integral part of our history and I am sure that this book will arouse the interest of music and art lovers everywhere. -Greg Solti

Subjects