Beethoven : the Ninth symphony / David Benjamin Levy.

Author/creator Levy, David Benjamin author.
Format Book
EditionRevised edition.
Publication InfoNew Haven, CT : London : Yale University Press, 2003.
Descriptionxi, 232 pages : illustrations ; 24 cm.
Subjects

SeriesYale music masterworks series
Yale music masterworks. ^A690532
Contents From "Rescue from the chains of tyrants" to "All men become brothers": the world of the Ninth -- The genesis of the Ninth -- The Ninth: movements I-III -- The Ninth: the choral finale -- The performances of 1824 -- In the shadow of the Ninth -- Performance traditions -- Nine Ninths: a select discography.
Abstract Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, a masterpiece that has influenced virtually every Western composer since its premiere, has become associated with the marking of momentous public occasions. In 1989, Chinese students played its finale through loudspeakers in Tiananmen Square, and Leonard Bernstein led a performance in Berlin to celebrate the razing of the Berlin Wall. This lively and up-to-date book focuses on Beethoven's Ninth, exploring the cultural and musical meanings that surround this powerful work of genius. The author sets the scene with a brief survey of nineteenth-century Germanic culture and society, then analyzes the Ninth symphony in detail with special emphasis on the famous choral finale. He discusses the initial performances in 1824 under Beethoven's direction and traces the symphony's critical reception and legacy. In the final chapter of the book, Levy examines interpretations of the work by prominent conductors, including Wagner, Mahler, and Weingartner. A fully annotated discography of selected recordings completes this comprehensive volume.
General notePrevious edition: New York: Schirmer; London: Prentice Hall International, 1995.
Bibliography noteIncludes bibliographical references (pages 221-226) and index.
ISBN0300099649

Availability

Library Location Call Number Status Item Actions
Music Music Stacks ML410.B42 L48 2003 ✔ Available Place Hold