Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1291506 in Books
• Published on: 1997-10
• Format: Illustrated
• Original language: English
• Binding: Hardcover
• 699 pages

Synopsis
A biography of the nineteenth-century German composer looks at his daily life, his associates--including his relationships with Robert Schumann, Clara Shumann, Richard Wagner, and Eduard Hanslick--and his achievements as a composer.

Customer Reviews

Wonderful, magical
No music-lover should miss this book which, as well as illluminating an underrated master, also sheds enormous light on 19th century music. An absolute masterpiece

One of the Best Books about Musicians I Have Ever Read
Brahms is a fascinating individual and I love his music (particulary the chamber stuff), but I wanted to know more.

Having looked at reviews on amazon.com, and having read Jan Swafford's generalist book on classical music (really good, by the way) I paid up for this book. I have to say that I often find biographies as dull as ditchwater and struggle with too much technical music stuff but this is a fine exception.

Detailing Brahm's eventful journey through life and his often odd relationships with others (women in particular) you learn of his struggles with large-scale works and of just how he fitted into 19th century art. I could not help but read this book right through in just a few sittings.

Excellent and well worth tracking down.