Sir Michael Tippett is widely considered to be one of the most individual composers of the twentieth century, whose music continues to be performed to critical acclaim throughout the world. Written by a team of international scholars, this Companion provides a wide ranging and accessible study of Tippett and his works. It discusses the contexts and concepts of modernism, tradition, politics, sexuality and creativity that shaped Tippett's music and ideas, engaging with archive materials, relevant literature and models of interpretation. Chapters explore the genres in which Tippett composed, including opera, symphony, string quartet, concerto and piano sonata, to shed new light on his major works and draw attention to those that have not yet received the attention they deserve. Directing knowledge and expertise towards a wide readership, this book will enrich the listening experience and broaden understanding of the music of this endlessly fascinating and challenging composer.
• Provides a commentary on all of Tippett's major works so that readers will be better equipped to understand his music • Discusses Tippett's lesser-known works to give readers a more rounded view of Tippett and his music • Brings together a wide range of sources and references and invites wider reading and thinking
Contents
Chronology of Tippett's life and career Jonathan Rees; Part I. Contexts and Concepts: 1. Tippett and twentieth-century polarities Arnold Whittall; 2. Tippett and the English traditions Christopher Mark; 3. 'Things that chiefly interest ME': Tippett and early music Suzanne Cole; 4. Tippett and politics: the 1930s and beyond Joanna Bullivant; 5. 'Coming out to oneself': encodings of homosexual identity from the first string quartet to The Heart's Assurance Suzanne Robinson; 6. Between image and imagination: Tippett's creative process Thomas Schuttenhelm; Part II. Works and Genres: 7. Tippett's 'great divide': before and after King Priam Iain Stannard; 8. 'Symphonic music in our modern times': Tippett and the symphony Edward Venn; 9. Tippett and the concerto: from double to triple Kenneth Gloag; 10. The four piano sonatas: past and present tensions Alastair Borthwick; 11. Formal archetypes, revered masters and singing nightingales: Tippett's string quartets Nicholas Jones; 12. Tippett's operatic world: from The Midsummer Marriage to New Year Kenneth Gloag; 13. Words and music Edward Venn; Chronological list of works Jonathan Rees.
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