Description
Book SynopsisListening to Art Song: An Introduction offers an easy-to-read, fresh perspective on the remarkably diverse musical genre of art song. As the ultimate expression of the human singing voice, song has provided succor and entertainment to humanity in many forms since the dawn of civilization. Margaret Olson examines art song's development, outlines the elements that comprise it, offers ideas on how to effectively listen to it, provides brief biographical sketches of key art song composers, and lists important recordings in the Italian, French, German, British, and American art song traditions. By instructing readers in how to evaluate art songs, Olson informs and enhances the art song experience for listeners. Listening to Art Song is the ideal text for any student studying voice or anyone interested in the genre of song.
Trade ReviewFor me, nothing is as important as a song—a crystallized moment of history, a window into the human heart. For a beginner who wants an overview of songs written for the concert stage, Margaret Olson has compiled it all into one compact guide. This elegantly written book directs the ear and the mind of the reader straight to the beauties of this art form. -- Steven Blier, artistic director and cofounder, New York Festival of Song (NYFOS), and faculty member, Juilliard School
The art song recital made easy to understand and down to earth. This book is a helpful way to experience the aspects of an intimate live performance through the pairing of voice and piano. The recordings, song choices, and singers will stretch your imagination and inspire you to be a creative performer, programmer, and listener. -- Julie Simson, professor of voice, Rice University
Margaret Olson’s Listening to Art Song is an indispensable volume for all who seek a more personal connection with this most universal of musical expressions. . . . A must-have, go-to resource!
Table of ContentsForeword Acknowledgments Chapter 1: An Introduction to Song Chapter 2: The Development of Art Song Chapter 3: The Elements of Song Chapter 4: How to Listen to Song Chapter 5: Italian Song Chapter 6: German Lieder Chapter 7: French Mélodies Chapter 8: Songs of the British Isles Chapter 9: American Songs: Part One Chapter 10: American Songs: Part Two Appendix A: Recommended Song Recordings Appendix B: List of Composers by Country of Birth Glossary Bibliography About the Author
