Description
Book SynopsisArguably the most important British post-minimalist composer, Gavin Bryars has worked in classical music, jazz, free improvisation, minimalism, historicism, avant-garde, and experimental music. This new book brings together musicians and academics who have worked with Bryars, each discussing one particular aspect of his work.
Trade Review'Listening to The Sinking of the Titanic, Jesus' Blood Never Failed Me Yet, Double Bass Concerto (Farewell to St. Petersburg), Cello Concerto (Farewell to Philosophy) and One Last Bar then Joe Can Sing gave me the distinct impression of a thoughtful, committed composer with a very strong personal voice - always the main issue for me.' - Steve Reich; 'The music of Gavin Bryars falls under no category. It is mongrel, full of sensuality and wit and is deeply moving. He is one of the few composers who can put slapstick and primal emotion alongside each other. He allows you to witness new wonders in the sounds around you by approaching them from a completely new angle. With a third ear maybe?' - Michael Ondaatje
Table of ContentsForeword by Steve Reich Preface by David Wordsworth Prologue - an interview with Gavin Bryars 1. Vocal Music - John Potter 2. Choral Music - David Wordsworth 3. Opera - David Wordsworth 4. Jazz and Improvisation - Brian Morton 5. Experimental Music - Virginia Anderson 6. Dance - Roger Heaton 7. Titanic and Jesus' Blood - Brian Morton 8. Orchestral Music - Martin Cotton 9. Notes from a Collaborator - Blake Morrison 10. The Adnan Songbook - Anna Maria Friman 11. The Flower of Friendship - The Gavin Bryars Ensemble - Audrey Riley 12. Bryars and Art School - Simon Strange 13. After Handel's 'Vesper' and the Harpsichord's Dual Life - Mahan Esfahani 14. Tributes - Howard Skempton and Bryn Harrison Epilogue: Career and Evolution - Gavin Bryars Appendices Bryars' Desert Island Discs Catalogue of Works Arrangements by others Discography Contributors Index of Names Acknowledgements
