Description
Book SynopsisThis significant volume is the first to present in detail the entire prolific vocal repertoire of the late-Romantic German composer Max Reger. The Songs of Max Reger: A Guide and Study begins with a brief introduction discussing the development of German Lied, then journeys through this creative composer''s works for voice and piano. With many musical examples, Richard Mercier and Donald Nold present a survey and discussion of Reger''s lifetime of song output. The book proceeds through the songs chronologically by opus number, discussing each individually. All entries include details pertinent to the song''s particular poem, its musical setting, the date of musical composition, the vocal range required, and discussion of specific vocal and pianistic features. The text also provides the original German poem, word-for-word English translation of the German text, IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) pronunciation symbols for the German, and a prose version of the poetic text in English for better appreciation of the piece. An index and two appendixes complete this important reference, arranging the songs by title and poet and supplying information on vocal range, level of difficulty, and gender. Designed for the classical vocal music enthusiast and invaluable to the singer and vocal coach, this book, commemorating the 135th anniversary of the composer''s birth, will also appeal to accompanists, Reger scholars, and lovers of German Lieder and German art and culture.
Trade ReviewI read The Songs of Max Reger with keen interest and found that the book provides singer/pianist duos and other song lovers with a splendid opportunity to improve their knowledge of this composer of unconventional and very moving German art songs. More importantly, the authors teach us how to perform German Art Song in general, and in particular the songs of Max Reger. His beautiful songs absolutely deserve to be performed more often. They will surprise the listener by their originality, especially with the guidance offered by Richard Mercier and Donald Nold. Warmly recommended. -- Elly Ameling, World famous Dutch soprano
