In this study, Hopkins provides with over 60 music examples, a non-technical, illustrated analysis of the seven concertos of Beethoven, some of his best known works. It comments on the structural and stylistic content of each work and highlights the musical jokes that Beethoven was renowned for making. It is aimed at academics, music professionals and those with an interest in Beethoven and 19th century music.
"An illustrated companion to the lives and works of the most celebrated composers"--Cover
Beethoven's symphonies - pinnacles of music as Shakespeare's plays are pinnacles of drama - demand a fresh interpretation in every age. It is Antony Hopkins' achievement - based on many years' musical experience, study, broadcasting and writing - that he provides for the present generation of music-lovers a thoroughly illuminating guide to the nine symphonies. Always keeping close to the score and using numerous music examples to illustrate his movement by movement study of each symphony, Antony Hopkins establishes intriguing relationships between symphonies usually regarded as very different in character, and traces in detail the processes by which Beethoven brought these great works into being.Concentration on the score, however, does not prevent Antony Hopkins from ranging widely over Beethoven's tempestuous life, and a fascinating picture emerges. We learn much about his manic-depressive tendencies; his ambivalence over Napoleon, the aristocracy, and women; and his gaucheness and irascibility as his deafness increased. We are shown too how he was the first great Romantic composer, straining forward musically with the revolutionary movement of his age, even though a strongly conservative strain in his character often caused him to look back to his predecessors.
Dust jacket clipped and worn, page edges tanned. Shipped from the U.K. All orders received before 3pm sent that weekday.
Antony Hopkins played a crucial role in making classical music accessible to a broader audience. In honor of his 90th birthday on March 21, 2011, coinciding with Bach's birthday, selected works by Hopkins are being republished to celebrate his contributions to the genre.
Antony Hopkins played a crucial role in making classical music accessible to a broader audience. In honor of his 90th birthday on March 21, 2011, coinciding with Bach's birth date, select works by Hopkins are being republished to celebrate his contributions to the genre.
The book celebrates Antony Hopkins' contributions to making classical music accessible, coinciding with his 90th birthday. It features two volumes, with the first volume highlighting influential composers such as Bach, Beethoven, and Chopin, among others. Each entry provides insights that aim to enhance the concert experience for audiences, making it a valuable resource for both seasoned concertgoers and newcomers to classical music.
Celebrating Antony Hopkins' significant contribution to making classical music accessible, this volume features insights on compositions from 25 renowned composers spanning both Classical and Modern periods. Included are influential figures such as Mahler, Mozart, Ravel, and Stravinsky, among others. The book serves as a comprehensive guide, enhancing the concert experience for enthusiasts by providing context and appreciation for the works of these pivotal composers.
