Book description
This volume uniquely combines a lively biography of one of the
best-loved composers of the nineteenth century with a detailed
chronological guide to much of his oeuvre, from the popular ballets
and concertos to lesser known pieces. Brown enthusiastically and
sensitively guides the reader through Tchaikovsky's music in the
context of his life. His writing on the music is accessible and
informative, both for the professional musician and the keen amateur
listener. The biographical writing includes fascinating quotations
from the composer's letters, and those of his friends; the Tchaikovsky
that emerges, despite his periodic struggle with depression, is a man
with a very positive attitude to life, and a kind and supportive
friend to many around him. This is essential reading for anyone with
an interest in Tchaikovsky, his music and the culture of the time.
Comments on Professor Brown's earlier four-volume study on the life
and work of Tchaikovsky: 'In any language, it is definitive' Geoffrey
Norris, Sunday Telegraph 'A magnificent achievement, and one which can
only deepen our appreciation and understanding of this great composer'
Hugh Canning, Sunday Times
David Brown is a world authority on both Russian 19th-century
music and Tudor polyphony and was Professor of Music at Southampton
University, from where he retired as Professor of Musicology in 1989.
His books include major works on Glinka, Tchaikovsky (in four
volumes), Musorgsky, and the English madrigalist, Thomas Weelkes. He
has broadcast frequently.
