Edward MacDowell By: Lawrence Gilman (1878-1939)
Edward MacDowell by Lawrence Gilman is a captivating exploration of the life and work of one of America's most prominent composers. Gilman's meticulous research and engaging writing style bring to life the complexities and genius of Edward MacDowell, shedding light on the intricacies of his music and the struggles he encountered throughout his career. The book delves into MacDowell's early years, chronicling his upbringing and his gradual transformation into a talented composer. Gilman masterfully depicts MacDowell's journey as he navigates the European music scene, from his studies in Paris to his encounters with influential figures such as Franz Liszt. The author provides invaluable insights into MacDowell's creative process, effectively capturing the passion and dedication that fueled his drive to compose. Furthermore, Gilman examines the impact of MacDowell's compositions within the context of American music at the time. He skillfully highlights MacDowell's endeavor to create a distinct American musical identity, fusing elements of European classical music with American folk music. This unique approach was both revolutionary and influential, leaving a lasting legacy in the development of American classical music. One of the book's most remarkable aspects is Gilman's ability to humanize MacDowell. Rather than merely idealizing him as a composer, the author presents a well-rounded portrayal of MacDowell's strengths, flaws, and personal struggles. Throughout the narrative, readers gain a deep understanding of MacDowell's emotional and mental state, particularly his battle with depression and its impact on his compositions. Gilman's prose is both elegant and accessible, making the book an enjoyable read for both music enthusiasts and general readers alike. His thoughtful analysis of MacDowell's works allows readers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of his music, providing a deeper understanding of the composer's unique contributions to the musical landscape. Overall, Edward MacDowell by Lawrence Gilman is an exceptional biography that successfully brings to life the extraordinary journey of a remarkable composer and sheds light on his significant contributions to American music. Gilman's insightful research and compelling storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the life and legacy of Edward MacDowell. First Page: EDWARD MACDOWELL A Study by LAWRENCE GILMAN Author of Phases of Modern Music ; The Music of Tomorrow ; Stories of Symphonic Music ; A Guide to Strauss' "Salome" ; Debussy's "Pelléas el Melisande": A Guide to the Opera ; Aspects of Modern Opera ; etc. London: John Lane, The Bodley Head New York: John Lane Company MCMIX 1908 [Illustration: Edward MacDowell] TO HENRY T. FINCK PREFACE This study is based upon the monograph on MacDowell which I contributed in 1905 to the "Living Masters of Music" series. That book could not, of course, remain in the series after the death of MacDowell three years later; it was therefore taken from its place and used as a foundation for the present volume, which supersedes it in every respect. The biographical portion is almost wholly new, and has been greatly enlarged, while the chapters dealing with MacDowell's music have been revised and extended. In completing this survey of one who in his art is still of to day, I have been poignantly conscious throughout of the fact that posterity has an inconvenient habit of reversing the judgments delivered upon creative artists by their contemporaries; yet to trim deftly one's convictions in the hope that they may elastically conform to any one of a number of possible verdicts to be expected from a capricious futurity, is probably as dangerous a proceeding as to avow, without equivocation or compromise, one's precise beliefs... Continue reading book >>

Edward MacDowell By: Lawrence Gilman (1878-1939)

Edward MacDowell by Lawrence Gilman is a captivating exploration of the life and work of one of America's most prominent composers. Gilman's meticulous research and engaging writing style bring to life the complexities and genius of Edward MacDowell, shedding light on the intricacies of his music and the struggles he encountered throughout his career.

The book delves into MacDowell's early years, chronicling his upbringing and his gradual transformation into a talented composer. Gilman masterfully depicts MacDowell's journey as he navigates the European music scene, from his studies in Paris to his encounters with influential figures such as Franz Liszt. The author provides invaluable insights into MacDowell's creative process, effectively capturing the passion and dedication that fueled his drive to compose.

Furthermore, Gilman examines the impact of MacDowell's compositions within the context of American music at the time. He skillfully highlights MacDowell's endeavor to create a distinct American musical identity, fusing elements of European classical music with American folk music. This unique approach was both revolutionary and influential, leaving a lasting legacy in the development of American classical music.

One of the book's most remarkable aspects is Gilman's ability to humanize MacDowell. Rather than merely idealizing him as a composer, the author presents a well-rounded portrayal of MacDowell's strengths, flaws, and personal struggles. Throughout the narrative, readers gain a deep understanding of MacDowell's emotional and mental state, particularly his battle with depression and its impact on his compositions.

Gilman's prose is both elegant and accessible, making the book an enjoyable read for both music enthusiasts and general readers alike. His thoughtful analysis of MacDowell's works allows readers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of his music, providing a deeper understanding of the composer's unique contributions to the musical landscape.

Overall, Edward MacDowell by Lawrence Gilman is an exceptional biography that successfully brings to life the extraordinary journey of a remarkable composer and sheds light on his significant contributions to American music. Gilman's insightful research and compelling storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the life and legacy of Edward MacDowell.

First Page:

EDWARD MACDOWELL

A Study

LAWRENCE GILMAN

Author of Phases of Modern Music ; The Music of Tomorrow ; Stories of Symphonic Music ; A Guide to Strauss' "Salome" ; Debussy's "Pelléas el Melisande": A Guide to the Opera ; Aspects of Modern Opera ; etc.

London: John Lane, The Bodley Head New York: John Lane Company MCMIX

1908

[Illustration: Edward MacDowell]

TO HENRY T. FINCK

PREFACE

This study is based upon the monograph on MacDowell which I contributed in 1905 to the "Living Masters of Music" series. That book could not, of course, remain in the series after the death of MacDowell three years later; it was therefore taken from its place and used as a foundation for the present volume, which supersedes it in every respect. The biographical portion is almost wholly new, and has been greatly enlarged, while the chapters dealing with MacDowell's music have been revised and extended.

In completing this survey of one who in his art is still of to day, I have been poignantly conscious throughout of the fact that posterity has an inconvenient habit of reversing the judgments delivered upon creative artists by their contemporaries; yet to trim deftly one's convictions in the hope that they may elastically conform to any one of a number of possible verdicts to be expected from a capricious futurity, is probably as dangerous a proceeding as to avow, without equivocation or compromise, one's precise beliefs... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Biography
Music
War stories

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Wikipedia – Lawrence Gilman
Wikipedia – Edward MacDowell

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