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Autobiographical Reminiscences with Family Letters and Notes on Music   By: (1818-1893)

Autobiographical Reminiscences with Family Letters and Notes on Music by Charles Gounod

Autobiographical Reminiscences with Family Letters and Notes on Music by Charles Gounod takes readers on a captivating journey through the life and mind of one of music's great composers. This incredibly comprehensive collection of anecdotes, personal letters, and insightful notes reflects Gounod's outstanding ability to convey his experiences, emotions, and artistic vision, providing readers with an intimate glimpse into the man behind the music.

Spanning various periods of his life, this book offers a chronological account of Gounod's upbringing, his musical education, and his career as a composer. From his humble beginnings in Paris to his encounters with influential figures such as Gioachino Rossini, Franz Liszt, and Hector Berlioz, Gounod's reminiscences offer precious insights into the intricacies of the classical music world during the 19th century.

What makes this book truly captivating is the sheer honesty and authenticity with which Gounod reveals himself. Through his letters to family and friends, he unreservedly shares his thoughts on music, his struggles and joys, his doubts and triumphs. This unabashed personal narrative transforms the book into an emotional journey, allowing readers to empathize with Gounod and gain a deeper appreciation for his compositions.

In addition to the autobiographical component, Gounod's “Notes on Music” add a scholarly dimension to the book. These notes reveal his meticulous approach to composition and serve as a valuable resource for aspiring musicians and music enthusiasts alike. By dissecting his own works, Gounod provides unique insights into his creative process, offering explanations, analyses, and anecdotes that shed light on the inspiration and challenges behind some of his most iconic compositions.

Despite its length and occasional tangents, Autobiographical Reminiscences manages to captivate readers with its engaging storytelling and invaluable historical context. Gounod's elegant prose style brings his memories to life, making readers feel like they are sitting alongside the composer, listening to his stories firsthand. Whether one is a dedicated fan of Gounod's music or a curious newcomer, this book will undoubtedly deepen their understanding and appreciation of his immense talent.

While the absence of a cohesive narrative might deter some readers, those with a passion for classical music and an interest in the personal lives of renowned composers will find Autobiographical Reminiscences with Family Letters and Notes on Music to be an enchanting and enlightening read. Gounod's honesty, vulnerability, and passion shine through every page, creating a remarkable and inspiring portrait of a true musical genius.

First Page:

CHARLES GOUNOD

[Illustration: Charles Gounod]

CHARLES GOUNOD

AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL REMINISCENCES

WITH FAMILY LETTERS AND

NOTES ON MUSIC

FROM THE FRENCH BY

THE HON. W. HELY HUTCHINSON

[Illustration: colophon]

LONDON

WILLIAM HEINEMANN 1896

[ All rights reserved ]

Printed by BALLANTYNE, HANSON & CO.

At the Ballantyne Press

CONTENTS

CHARLES GOUNOD

PAGE

I. CHILDHOOD 1

II. ITALY 54

III. GERMANY 110

IV. HOME AGAIN 127

LATER LETTERS OF CHARLES GOUNOD 173

BERLIOZ 195

M. CAMILLE SAINT SAËNS AND HIS OPERA "HENRI VIII." 209

NATURE AND ART 225

THE ACADEMY OF FRANCE AT ROME 239

THE ARTIST AND MODERN SOCIETY 253

INTRODUCTION

The following pages contain the story of the most important events of my artistic life, of the mark left by them on my personal existence, of their influence on my career, and of the thoughts they have suggested to my mind... Continue reading book >>




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