(Unlocking the Masters). Ludwig van Beethovens chamber works are some of his most revered compositions. Victor Lederer guides the serious nonprofessional listener through this oeuvre in his new book Beethovens Chamber Music: A Listeners Guide . Lederer shows how Beethovens sonatas for violin and piano overflow with high energy and spirits; showing a creative force that transcended personal struggles. The "Kreutzer" sonata; Op. 47; displays all the power of the masters middle period; while the G Major sonata; Op. 96; foreshadows Beethovens mellower late works. The author also considers the sonatas for cello and piano; which span Beethovens early; middle; and late periods; and examines the piano trios; including the immense "Archduke" trio. A highlight of the book is an exploration of the sixteen string quartets; which represent the pinnacle of Beethovens achievement in chamber music. Lederer explains how the middle-period quartets; starting with the epic "Razumovsky" set; shatter molds and create new procedures; often on a stunning scale; and why the five late quartets and the Great Fugue are considered the peaks of the quartet literature and of Beethovens own output. Lederer helps both new and experienced listeners grasp the strangeness and grandeur of these astonishing creations. The book comes with audio containing musical selections drawn from critically acclaimed performances on Naxos Records.
#91821 in eBooks 2007-08-01 2007-08-01File Name: B0095XK8FA
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Passionate readingBy disgruntledYes. I liked it a lot. Its a book written by a passionate artist and philosopher. Robert Henri. Its more for the classical and/or passionate artist than others.Thank you3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. RecommendedBy dfpenstonUnbelievably this is the best book on art/ painting I have read even though it has not got one picture or sketch in it. I would thoroughly recommend this to both budding and experienced artists. or someone who is thinking of taking up painting or even if they just have an interest in it. You wont find out any specific techniques of painting here so what does it have? It gives the authors genuine insight into what should be the true meaning and purpose of painting and it will inspire anyone to start or continue working in this medium. It gives guidance on what art should be all about and will encourage the reader to persevere and to get the best out of themselves. It also gives general principles on painting. mostly on portraits. It is a book that you will keep and read over and over again for its sheer delight and words of wisdom. If everbody who went to school had someone like Robert Henri as an art teacher. then they would all end up as artists.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Keeps on GivingBy Alan CaytonThis is a wonderful book for anyone who has ever tried to draw or paint. Robert Henri was an inspired and inspiring teacher whose comments seem relevant across the fields of time. The Art Spirit can be read from beginning to end or just opened at any point and still it gives you something to stimulate your creative juices. As a painter I often fine confirmation of my own experiences when I read Mr. Henris book.
