The Great German Composers By: George T. Ferris (1840-)
George T. Ferris's book, The Great German Composers, is an insightful and comprehensive exploration of the influential figures who have shaped the German classical music scene. From the Baroque period to the Romantic era, Ferris navigates through the lives, works, and historical contexts of some of the world's most renowned German composers. The book boasts an organized structure, with each chapter dedicated to a specific composer. This format enables readers to delve deeply into the life and artistic development of each individual, including well-known figures such as Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, and Wagner. Ferris discusses not only their musical accomplishments but also the socio-cultural impact of their works, shedding light on the historical events that influenced their compositions. What sets this book apart is Ferris's ability to strike a balance between accessibility and depth. While the content is well-researched and rich in detail, it also remains engaging and understandable for readers with varying levels of musical knowledge. Ferris employs a clear and concise writing style, effectively conveying complex musical concepts without overwhelming the reader. Furthermore, the author's passion for the subject matter shines through in his writing. Ferris effectively conveys his admiration for the composers and their music, fostering a sense of enthusiasm within the reader. This enthusiasm serves to amplify the book's impact, making it an enjoyable and immersive experience for music lovers and aspiring musicians alike. One noteworthy aspect of The Great German Composers is Ferris's inclusion of musical excerpts throughout the book. These excerpts add depth to the text, allowing readers to engage with the composers' music directly. Listening to the recommended compositions while reading about their historical and cultural significance enhances the overall reading experience, making it more dynamic and interactive. My only minor criticism is that some chapters may feel slightly rushed, particularly when covering the lives of the more prolific composers. Given the vast scope of their contributions, a longer discussion of their works would have been appreciated. However, this limitation can be expected in any book aiming to provide comprehensive coverage of multiple composers within a limited space. Overall, George T. Ferris's The Great German Composers masterfully combines historical context, musical analysis, and personal anecdotes to create an engaging and informative read. Whether you are a classical music aficionado or simply curious about the lives of these legendary composers, this book is an excellent resource that brings their stories and music to life. First Page: THE GREAT GERMAN COMPOSERS By George T. Ferris Copyright 1878, by D. Appleton and Company NOTE. The sketches of composers contained in this volume may seem arbitrary in the space allotted to them. The special attention given to certain names has been prompted as much by their association with great art epochs as by the consideration of their absolute rank as composers. The introduction of Chopin, born a Pole, and for a large part of his life a resident of France, among the German composers, may require an explanatory word. Chopin's whole early training was in the German school, and he may be looked on as one of the founders of the latest school of pianoforte composition, whose highest development is in contemporary Germany. He represents German music by his affinities and his influences in art, and bears too close a relation to important changes in musical form to be omitted from this series. The authorities to which the author is most indebted for material are: Schoelcher's "Life of Handel;" Liszt's "Life of Chopin;" Elise Polko's "Reminiscences;" Lampadius's "Life of Mendelssohn;" Chorley's "Reminiscences;" Urbino's "Musical Composers;" Franz Heuffner's "Wagner and the Music of the Future;" Haweis's "Music and Morals;" and articles in the leading Cyclopædias. CONTENTS... Continue reading book >>

The Great German Composers By: George T. Ferris (1840-)

George T. Ferris's book, The Great German Composers, is an insightful and comprehensive exploration of the influential figures who have shaped the German classical music scene. From the Baroque period to the Romantic era, Ferris navigates through the lives, works, and historical contexts of some of the world's most renowned German composers.

The book boasts an organized structure, with each chapter dedicated to a specific composer. This format enables readers to delve deeply into the life and artistic development of each individual, including well-known figures such as Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, and Wagner. Ferris discusses not only their musical accomplishments but also the socio-cultural impact of their works, shedding light on the historical events that influenced their compositions.

What sets this book apart is Ferris's ability to strike a balance between accessibility and depth. While the content is well-researched and rich in detail, it also remains engaging and understandable for readers with varying levels of musical knowledge. Ferris employs a clear and concise writing style, effectively conveying complex musical concepts without overwhelming the reader.

Furthermore, the author's passion for the subject matter shines through in his writing. Ferris effectively conveys his admiration for the composers and their music, fostering a sense of enthusiasm within the reader. This enthusiasm serves to amplify the book's impact, making it an enjoyable and immersive experience for music lovers and aspiring musicians alike.

One noteworthy aspect of The Great German Composers is Ferris's inclusion of musical excerpts throughout the book. These excerpts add depth to the text, allowing readers to engage with the composers' music directly. Listening to the recommended compositions while reading about their historical and cultural significance enhances the overall reading experience, making it more dynamic and interactive.

My only minor criticism is that some chapters may feel slightly rushed, particularly when covering the lives of the more prolific composers. Given the vast scope of their contributions, a longer discussion of their works would have been appreciated. However, this limitation can be expected in any book aiming to provide comprehensive coverage of multiple composers within a limited space.

Overall, George T. Ferris's The Great German Composers masterfully combines historical context, musical analysis, and personal anecdotes to create an engaging and informative read. Whether you are a classical music aficionado or simply curious about the lives of these legendary composers, this book is an excellent resource that brings their stories and music to life.

First Page:

THE GREAT GERMAN COMPOSERS

By George T. Ferris

NOTE.

The sketches of composers contained in this volume may seem arbitrary in the space allotted to them. The special attention given to certain names has been prompted as much by their association with great art epochs as by the consideration of their absolute rank as composers.

The introduction of Chopin, born a Pole, and for a large part of his life a resident of France, among the German composers, may require an explanatory word. Chopin's whole early training was in the German school, and he may be looked on as one of the founders of the latest school of pianoforte composition, whose highest development is in contemporary Germany. He represents German music by his affinities and his influences in art, and bears too close a relation to important changes in musical form to be omitted from this series.

The authorities to which the author is most indebted for material are: Schoelcher's "Life of Handel;" Liszt's "Life of Chopin;" Elise Polko's "Reminiscences;" Lampadius's "Life of Mendelssohn;" Chorley's "Reminiscences;" Urbino's "Musical Composers;" Franz Heuffner's "Wagner and the Music of the Future;" Haweis's "Music and Morals;" and articles in the leading Cyclopædias.

CONTENTS... Continue reading book >>

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