Description
Book SynopsisThis book is devoted to one of the world's greatest late twentieth-century symphonists, Chinese composer Zhu Jianer. Each of his 10 symphonies is discussed in detail and can be grouped into such concepts as the Cultural Revolution (nos. 1-2), an emphasis on human topics (nos. 3-4-5), and his continuous expansion of traditional symphonic boundaries (nos. 6-7-8-9-10). Zhu's symphonies can be relevant to all peoples and all cultures due to his concern for heaven, earth, and humankind. This in-depth discussion of Chinese and Western elements in Zhu's symphonies includes such topics as his free use of twelve-tone rows, his exploration of sound possibilities, his diverse and fascinating approaches to musical form, the concept of the lonely individual struggling within a decadent society, and his belief that humans must be ethical and responsible to ensure future hope for humankind. Courses in symphonic literature, Asian composers, or intercultural composers would benefit significantly fro
Trade Review
“John Robison’s insightful and illuminating study on the ten symphonies of Chinese composer Zhu Jianer is an important contribution to both the growing English-language scholarship on twentieth-century Chinese music and the enduring heritage of the symphonic genre. Robison convincingly demonstrates why these works matter, what makes them distinctive, and how Zhu, a composer largely unknown outside of China, has conceptualized the idea of a symphony and realized it in his own creative output.” —William Everett, Professor Emeritus of Musicology, The University of Missouri–Kansas City
“Zhu Jianer was the foremost symphonic composer of his generation whose works set milestones for Chinese music in the 20th century. His cycle of ten symphonies, begun when the composer was at the age of 64, is the focus of John Robison’s book—the first comprehensive study of these extraordinary works published in English. It is an indispensable volume for anyone interested in Chinese contemporary music, as well as the Chinese intellectual movement of this momentous period.” —Lei Liang, Chancellor’s Distinguished Professor of Music, University of California, San Diego; Winner of the 2021 Grawemeyer Award for Music Composition
Table of Contents
Musical Examples – Figures – Acknowledgments – Introduction – Symphony No. 1 – Symphony No. 2 – Symphony No. 3 – Symphony No. 4 – Symphony No. 5 – Symphony No. 6 – Symphony No. 7 – Symphony No. 8 –Symphony No. 9 – Symphony No. 10 – Conclusion – Bibliography – Index – About the Author.
