The Decca Book of Ballet

Drew, David (editor); Ernest Ansermet; Arnold L. Haskell

Published by Frederick Muller Limited, 1958

About this Item

THE DECCA BOOK OF BALLET, edited by David Drew, with an introduction by Ernest Ansermet, and a short history of ballet by Arnold L. Haskell, hardcover with no dust jacket, first edition, illustrated with 37 B/W photos. 1958. BOOK CONDITION: good. The text block is in fine condition, with no tears, marks, or dog-ears. On copyright page the tape which was covering the copyright date has been removed, leaving behind a stripe, but the print is still legible. Not a remainder nor library book. No bookplates nor signature of prior owner. The first and last endpapers and pastedowns are slightly foxed and have minor smudges. The top and side edges are also foxed. The red cloth boards are in good condition (one bumped corner, somewhat bowed lengthwise, a few slight spots on front and back, slight spine bumping, and light fading of spine but lettering still crisp). 9 ½ x 6 ½, 572 pages, 48 ounces NOTE THAT SINCE THE BOOK WEIGHS THREE POUNDS, THERE MAY BE ADDITIONAL SHIPPING CHARGES IF YOU LIVE OUTSIDE THE U.S OR REQUIRE PRIORITY MAIL INSIDE USA XX [from the preface] It is perhaps desirable to preface the DECCA BOOK OF BALLET with some explanation of its more novel features. In a sense, the book is a Chronicle of the part played by composers in the development of the art of ballet. For this reason, we have returned, wherever possible, to the composer's original conception and have attempted to establish what were his intentions with regard to the relationship between his music and the action of the ballet. In this respect, the function of the book is primarily documentary. But at the same time, it is designed to answer two practical needs. In the first place, it should provide guidance for those who listen to ballet music on gramophone records, in the concert Hall, and on the radio. The selection of music examples has been made entirely with this end in view. We have confined the music examples to those themes or motifs which helped to sustain the musical and dramatic unity of the score. The second , and more traditional, aims of our book is to assist the ballet-goer in following the action and the symbolism, if any, of a ballet.

Seller Inventory # 001162

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Decca Book of Ballet
• Publisher: Frederick Muller Limited
• Publication Date: 1958
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Condition: Good
• Dust Jacket Condition: No Jacket
• Weight: 48 ounces
• Seller catalogs:
  • Cultural Studies
  • Dance