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Poulenc
The Life in the Songs
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Format: Hardback
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See moreOne of the greatest modernist composers comes alive in this illuminating biography, a must-have for musicians and music-lovers alike.
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Description
Francis Poulenc (1899–1963) is widely acknowledged as one of the twentieth century's most significant masters of vocal music—solo, choral, and operatic—quite apart from his achievements in instrumental spheres. But what it cost him, and the determined bravery it took for his unusual talent to thrive, has always been underestimated.
In this seminal biography, Poulenc, which will serve as the definitive guide to the songs, acclaimed collaborative pianist Graham Johnson shows that it is in Poulenc's extraordinary songs, and seeing how they fit into his life—his hidden sexuality, addiction, and all—that we discover the composer's essential artistic being.
With Jeremy Sams's vibrant new song translations, the first in over forty years, and the insight that comes from a lifetime of performing this music, Johnson provides an essential volume for singers, pianists, listeners, and readers interested in the artistic milieu of modernism in the first half of the twentieth century.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
The biography by Graham Johnson is widely praised for its meticulous research and engaging writing. Reviewers commend Johnson's deep understanding and insightful interpretation of Poulenc's music and complex character. The book is noted for its comprehensiveness, offering not only an indispensable guide to the composer's songs but also enriching readers' appreciation of Poulenc's life and works. Critics highlight the accessible and authoritative manner in which Johnson presents Poulenc, making it an essential addition to any music lover's collection.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781631495236
Publisher: WW Norton & Co
Format: Hardback
Date Published: 03 July 2020
Country: United States
Imprint: Liveright Publishing Corporation
Illustration: 90 black-and-white illustrations
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 41.0mm
Width: 163.0mm
Height: 244.0mm
Weight: 941g
Pages: 576
About the Author
Graham Johnson is an award- winning pianist and senior professor of accompaniment at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. The author of Franz Schubert: The Complete Songs, he lives in London.
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