No musical genre has had a more chequered critical history than the concerto and yet simultaneously retained as consistently prominent a place in the affections of the concert-going public. This volume, one of very few to deal with the genre in its entirety, assumes a broad remit, setting the concerto in its musical and non-musical contexts, examining the concertos that have made important contributions to musical culture, and looking at performance-related topics. A picture emerges of a genre in a continual state of change, re-inventing itself in the process of growth and development and regularly challenging its performers and listeners to broaden the horizons of their musical experience.

“At the heart of this volume, one senses a kind of missionary zeal, a concerted effort (no pun intended) to take this particular genre out of academic limbo. Though perhaps the most popular musical form among great masses of music lovers, the concerto has often been dismissed by scholars as trivial, overly theatrical, ego driven, physical rather than intellectual. In this well-edited volume, Keefe provides a thorough, comprehensive antidote to such misconceptions. The volume explores every aspect of concerto history and literature, offering social and political contexts, stylistic comparisons, and a survey of major works (including structural analysis). The level of scholarship is high and perceptive comments abound. Highly recommended.”
Choice