Description

Stravinsky stands out as one of the most innovative musicians of the twentieth century. Over a career that lasted six decades, he produced a remarkable array of compositions characterized by extraordinary variety, ranging from the vibrant early Russian ballets to the cleverness and clarity of his neo-classical pieces, as well as the profound spirituality found in works such as the Symphony of Psalms and the Mass, culminating in his unique approach to serialism in his later compositions. This comprehensive examination of Stravinsky's oeuvre is presented in chronological order and is crafted in a manner that is accessible to students, scholars, and music enthusiasts alike. Walsh utilizes contemporary literature alongside the composer's own correspondence and sketches to offer new perspectives on Stravinsky's creations, convincingly arguing that a holistic view of his work reveals deeper connections in style and technique than is typically recognized.