FAMOUS INSTRUMENTALISTS

by David Ewen ‧ RELEASE DATE: April 5, 1965

The classical musicians included in this inventory are all young men who have become well-established in the public ear, generally by their prowess in important competitions. (Van Cliburn, the subject of the lead-off chapter, is probably the archetype.) The majority are pianists, but there is a heavy sprinkling of violinists, a few cellists, and classical guitarist Julian Bream. Some interesting facts gleaned: practically all of these noteworthy gentlemen have a special fondness for ping-pong, go in for particular culinary tastes (especially outdoor barbecuing) and many have devoted wives who gave up their own musical aspirations to help their husbands' careers. Other facts include the places where they studied, and their important performances. Material about their styles is disappointingly brief and nonanalytical. There are none of the lively anecdotes which surround most musical personalities and which might have made this book interesting reading. It will be helpful mainly as an up-to-date supplement to other reference materials.

Pub Date: April 5, 1965

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Dodd, Mead

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 1, 1965

Categories: NONFICTION