The Masters and their Music A series of illustrative programs with biographical, esthetical, and critical annotations   By: William S. B. Mathews (1837-1912)

"The Masters and their Music" by William S. B. Mathews is an insightful and comprehensive exploration of the lives, music, and artistic impact of some of the greatest composers in Western music history. Through a series of illustrative programs, Mathews takes readers on a journey that combines biographical, esthetical, and critical analyses to deepen our understanding and appreciation of these musical geniuses.

One of the remarkable aspects of this book is Mathews' ability to seamlessly integrate multiple perspectives. The biographical sections not only provide factual information about the composers' lives but also delve into their personal struggles, triumphs, and the societal context in which they worked. This approach helps readers see these composers as real individuals, making their music even more relatable and meaningful.

The esthetical annotations in the book offer a unique lens through which we can explore the composers' works. Mathews provides detailed explanations of the stylistic characteristics, thematic developments, and emotional nuances of each piece, allowing readers to approach the music with a deeper understanding. Additionally, his inclusion of musical excerpts and accompanying analysis helps to bridge the gap between the written word and the auditory experience.

Mathews' critical annotations further enrich the book by presenting different interpretations, historical perspectives, and controversies surrounding the composers and their music. This encourages readers to think critically and form their own opinions, fostering a more engaging and interactive reading experience. Additionally, Mathews' writing style is approachable and engaging, making the complex subject matter accessible to both music enthusiasts and general readers alike.

"The Masters and their Music" is not just a book about music; it is a testament to the power of art and its ability to shape and reflect the human experience. Mathews demonstrates a deep reverence for these composers and their contributions, igniting a similar passion within readers. It is a book that not only educates but also inspires, leaving readers with a renewed appreciation for the masters and their timeless music.

Overall, "The Masters and their Music" is a meticulously crafted and captivating book that serves as an invaluable resource for music lovers, scholars, and anyone curious about the lives and works of the classical composers. Mathews' exceptional blend of biographical, esthetical, and critical annotations creates a multifaceted examination that enlightens and entertains. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding and connection to the incredible musical legacies of these masters.

First Page:

When a musical student begins to think of music as a literature and to inquire about individualities of style and musical expression, it is necessary for him to come as soon as possible to the fountainheads of this literature in the works of a few great masters who have set the pace and established the limits for all the rest. In the line of purely instrumental music this has been done by Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Schumann, Chopin, Liszt, and Wagner. The latter, who exercised a vast influence upon the manner of developing a musical thought and in the selection of the orchestral colors in which it can be expressed advantageously, powerfully stimulated all composers later than himself, nevertheless exerted this influence at second hand, so to say, never having written purely instrumental movements, but merely dramatic accompaniments of one intensity or another... Continue reading book >>