THE LIFE AND WORKS OF BEETHOVEN

by John Burk ‧ RELEASE DATE: June 14, 1943

The biographer of Clara Schumann gives here a twofold work on Beethoven, -- first the story of his life, second a bibliography and commentary on his work. As a biography it is sober, scrupulous, impartial, but it lacks the vitality, the imagination of the Romain Rolland. Direct, naive, uncouth, passionate and powerful, his is always a tragic story of a man who was to have recognition as a musician, but frustration in his emotional life, whether in his love affairs or his relationship with the ungrateful nephew he adopted. Musically, he had a prodigious career, as pianist, composer, teacher , with the early years bringing acknowledgement and acclaim. In later life, the desperation which accompanied his deafness, the unwanted solitude, the loneliness, and contempt in his human relationships, exaggerated by his financial and legal troubles. A sound and just appraisal of the man and his works -- if another biography of Benthoven is needed.

Pub Date: June 14, 1943

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Random House

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 1, 1943

Categories: NONFICTION