In this series of letters written between November 1869 and May 1875; a young American pianist; Amy Fay; recounts the thrilling experience of studying piano with such great teachers as Liszt; Tausig; and Kullak. Printed 21 times in America; published also in London; and translated into French and German; this book has clearly established its wide appeal to music students.The author describes the customs and mores; the place of interest; and the people she encountered during her stay in Germany; then the music capital of the world. In a vivid style and with youthful exuberance; she imparts to the reader her impressions of performances by Anton Rubinstein; Clara Schumann; Tausig; Liszt; the great violinist Joachim; Wagner (as conductor); and other notables of music history. Her account of a reception and concert in honor of Wagner is especially fascinating.But the sections of this entirely engaging work that are of primary importance to music students; particularly to students and teachers of the piano; are the authors detailed accounts of the teaching methods of the great piano virtuosi. Interesting pictures of lessons of Tausigs conservatory; of Kullaks teaching techniques; and; above all; a unique portrait of Liszt the man; the teacher; and the performer emerge from these letters. So valued are Amy Fays impressions of Liszt; in fact; that these sections alone are regarded as a miniature classic. For this Dover edition; Professor Frances Dillon of the Mannes College of Music contributed an informative introduction.Because of her position as a student working closely with Liszt; Tausig; Kullak; and Deppe; Amy Fay was able to reveal many little-known facets of their work and their teaching techniques. Her obvious enthusiasm and serious attitude towards her study make this a work of great liveliness and rare insight. Not only students of the piano; but all musicologists will find her comments and descriptions invaluable. And the general reader should enjoy the many anecdotes and personal glimpses of these famous names in music.
#734795 in eBooks 2014-05-19 2014-05-19File Name: B00KB4E3X0
Review
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