Mendelssohn, time and memory
Subtitle: the romantic conception of cyclic form
By: Benedict Taylor
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 2011
Place of publication: New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 303
ISBN-13: 9781107005785
Subjects: Criticism and interpretation; History and criticism; Cyclic form (Music); Instrumental music
Description: "Felix Mendelssohn has long been viewed as one of the most historically minded composers in western music. This book explores the conceptions of time, memory and history found in his instrumental compositions, presenting an intriguing new perspective on his ever-popular music. Focusing on Mendelssohn's innovative development of cyclic form, Taylor investigates how the composer was influenced by the aesthetic and philosophical movements of the period. This is of key importance not only for reconsideration of Mendelssohn's work and its position in nineteenth-century culture, but also more generally concerning the relationship between music, time and subjectivity. One of very few detailed accounts of Mendelssohn's music, the study presents a new and provocative reading of the meaning of the composer's work by connecting it to wider cultural and philosophical ideas."--Publisher's website.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references and index.