A major new biography, published for the 250th anniversary of Beethoven's birth, offers a fresh, human portrayal of the iconic composer. "Illuminating. . . . Tunbridge's pithy A Life in Nine Pieces is different and welcome: a biography presented through the focus of nine different compositions," remarks Fiona Maddocks of The Guardian. "Rewarding. . . . A lot of information is packed into her musical portraits," adds Richard Fairman of the Financial Times.
The widespread image of Beethoven as a lone genius, with his wild hair, clenched fists, and furrowed brow, is only one aspect of this multifaceted figure. Beethoven's music shaped the future, but he was also a product of his time, influenced by the people, politics, and culture around him. Oxford scholar Laura Tunbridge offers an alternative history of Beethoven's career, placing his music in contexts that shed light on why particular pieces are valued more than others, and what this tells us about his larger-than-life reputation.
Each chapter of the biography focuses on a period of Beethoven's life, a piece of music, and a revealing theme, ranging from family to friends, from heroism to liberty. Along the way, readers discover Beethoven's unusual marketing strategies, his ambitious concert programming, and how specific performers and instruments influenced his works. This comprehensive approach provides new ways to understand Beethoven and the enduring value of his music.
Tunbridge's exploration of Beethoven's life and compositions challenges the traditional narrative, offering a more nuanced and human portrayal of the legendary composer. By contextualizing his music within the social, political, and cultural landscapes of his time, the biography sheds light on the complex factors that contributed to Beethoven's lasting legacy. This fresh perspective on a well-known figure promises to captivate readers and deepen their appreciation for Beethoven's timeless compositions.
product information:
Attribute | Value | ||||
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publisher | Yale University Press (October 26, 2020) | ||||
language | English | ||||
hardcover | 288 pages | ||||
isbn_10 | 030025458X | ||||
isbn_13 | 978-0300254587 | ||||
item_weight | 1 pounds | ||||
dimensions | 5.5 x 1 x 8.5 inches | ||||
best_sellers_rank | #499,422 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #113 in Classical Musician Biographies #707 in Classical Music (Books) #12,295 in World History (Books) | ||||
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