Selected Letters of Michael Tippett - Hardcover

Schuttenhelm, Thomas

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0571226000 ISBN 13: 9780571226009

Publisher: Faber & Faber, 2005

Synopsis

Throughout his life, which spanned the greater part of the twentieth century (1905-1998), Sir Michael Tippett was a prolific letter-writer. He wrote to a vast number of people over the years, including family, friends and lovers, colleagues in the music world, journalists, poets, dramatists and politicians. Published to coincide with the centenary of Tippett's birth, these carefully selected letters provide us with a first hand account of the composer's private and professional experiences, revealing a uniquely personal view which until now has remained largely unknown to the public.

Bearing witness to the atrocities and advancements of the twentieth century, these letters display a fiercely creative mind struggling to construct a universal artistic expression. His correspondence places the reader at the composer's side, within the historical moment, as a witness to the creative process. Writing open, uninhibited letters became common practice for Tippett, his candid tone lending itself to tackling a wide range of personal and social issues. From the bombing of his cottage in Oxted, to the ecstatic experience of artistic breakthrough that led to progress on a new composition, each new event and accomplishment is documented with clarity and urgency.

About this title

Review:

An intriguing volume of letters...[Tippett's] friendships spring off the page with warmth and evident devotion. -- The Spectator, September 2005

The letters paint a vivid portrait of a complex creative personality...this selection is of inestimable value -- Gramophone Magazine September 2005

[Tippett's] letters...show what a gift for friendship he possessed...they tell you that inspiration really exists. -- The Sunday Telegraph, October 2005

Synopsis:

Bearing witness to the atrocities and advancements of the twentieth century, these letters display a fiercely creative mind struggling to construct a universal artistic expression. His correspondence places the reader at the composer's side, within the historical moment, as a witness to the creative process. Writing open, uninhibited letters became common practice for Tippett, his candid tone lending itself to tackling a wide range of personal and social issues. From the bombing of his cottage in Oxted, to the ecstatic experience of artistic breakthrough that led to progress on a new composition, each new event and accomplishment is documented with clarity and urgency.

About this edition

• Publisher: Faber & Faber
• Publication date: 2005
• ISBN 10: 0571226000
• ISBN 13: 9780571226009
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 480