‘This book has allowed me to rediscover the Messiaen that I knew, but also to encounter an unknown Messiaen. May everyone have as much pleasure reading this book as I have!’ – Olivier Latry, Titular Organist of the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris
‘A readable and engaging contribution to understanding the complicated life and work of one of the twentieth century’s most important figures. Highly recommended.’ – Andrew Shenton, Boston University
This groundbreaking biography offers fresh perspectives on the life, ideas and music of French twentieth-century composer, organist and ornithologist Olivier Messiaen. Drawing on previously unexplored sketches and archival material, Robert Sholl seamlessly combines elements of biography, musicology, theology, philosophy, psychoanalysis and aesthetics to present a nuanced perspective on Messiaen’s work. This book examines the profound impact of Messiaen’s devout Catholicism, which found expression through his work as a church organist, his engagement with birdsong, his interaction with Surrealism and his influence on major musical figures of the latter twentieth century. Unlike previous biographies, this book also considers the perspectives of Messiaen’s contemporaries and students, providing a comprehensive understanding of his life and artistic legacy.
Publisher : Reaktion Books (13 May 2024)
Language : English
Hardcover : 256 pages
ISBN-10 : 1789148650
ISBN-13 : 978-1789148657
Dimensions : 15.6 x 2.79 x 23.39 cm
