Richard Strauss: A Critical Commentary on His Life and Works (Volume I)
by Norman Del Mar
Richard Strauss: A Critical Commentary on His Life and Works (1)
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Norman Del Mar (1919-1994) was universally recognised as a leading authority on the music of Richard Strauss, and his masterly three-volume study of his life and works remains a classic.Volume I deals with the years from the composer's birth (1864) to Der Rosenkavalier (1912), discussing the early orchestral and chamber music, the tone poems and the operas Guntram, Feuersnot, Salome and Elektra .'Deploying a well-nigh encyclopaedic knowledge, Mr Del Mar acquits himself brilliantly of his show more task of disentangling and reassembling the numerous strands that make up the backcloth of poetry and philosophy which Strauss, while not always understanding every intricacy, yet needed as a constant reference map for his composing. The three volumes of this magnificent book should be studied by all lovers of the late-romantic music, amateurs and professionals alike... a monumental achievement.' Times Literary Supplement 'A brilliant and copiously analytical study ... a constant fascination.' Guardian show lessTags
Member Reviews
It's surprising to see how little love this book has received on Goodreads; surely Del Mar remains one of the most important writers on Strauss, even sixty years after the volume's release? This is a history-cum-critical-commentary that details Strauss' early career as a composer up to the great opera Der Rosenkavalier in 1911. It is filled with delicate musical examples and criticism, as well as biographical tidbits. The book is introductory, that is anyone with an interest will be able to follow along.
A handsome series, and perhaps not bettered in the realms of generally accessible Straussiana.
A handsome series, and perhaps not bettered in the realms of generally accessible Straussiana.
Price-clipped. Reprint.
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Norman Del Mar is an eminent conductor of wide experience. He has taught conducting at the Guildhall School of Music, 1954-60, at the Royal College of Music, 1971-90, and at a number of International Conducting Seminars. He has held posts in Leeds, Bournemouth, Glasgow, Gothenburg, and Aarhus and was Artistic Director of the Norwich Festival in show more 1979 and 1982; he made numerous appearances at the Promenade Concerts including three Last Nights. He holds Honorary Doctorates at several universities and was awarded the CBE in 1975. He is the author of the 3-volume definitive study of Richard Strauss and several books on the orchestra. show less
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