Experiencing Berlioz

A Listener's Companion

By (author) Melinda P. O'Neal

Not available to order

Publication date:

23 February 2018

Length of book:

292 pages

Publisher

Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

ISBN-13: 9780810886070

Experiencing Berlioz: A Listener’s Companion is an in-depth entrée into the sound world of Hector Berlioz, recognized today as one of the most profoundly original and engaging composers in 19th-century Europe.

Melinda O’Neal offers the non-specialist a pathway into the underlying allure of Berlioz's music. His views on rehearsing and conducting, bumpy career ride and failures, the journey of a work through revisions and editions, and historical performance practices provide a backdrop to discussions of his most significant works.

As O’Neal addresses the motivation and conception, sonic atmosphere, and compositional strategies of key works, she provides a new multifaceted experience not only to music historians and performers but also to any amateur music lover who has ever been entranced by Berlioz’s undeniable musical veracity. As the listener interacts with Berlioz's music, the ear's curiosity and imagination will take flight.
Beautifully written, clearly organized, creatively detailed, and full of information and insight concerning the works of Berlioz being discussed. This volume will be both a helpful guide for the passionate listener and a valuable resource for the performing musician. Highly recommended.