Debussy: The Quiet Revolutionary (Unlocking the Masters Series No. 13) (Paperback)

by Lederer Victor (Author)
Key Phrases: cello sonata, terrasse des audiences, cathédrale engloutie, Masterpieces of the Middle Years, Children's Corner, The Great Opera (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description
Victor Lederer explores the sophistication, refinement and inspirations of Debussy's music, pointing out subtleties that otherwise could take years of careful listening to fully appreciate. Includes a full-length CD of the maestro's masterworks.

About the Author
Victor Lederer is a successful journalist and music critic. He has worked for the American Record Guide, and Classics Today.com

Product Details

• Paperback: 148 pages
• Publisher: Amadeus Press (March 1, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1574671537
• ISBN-13: 978-1574671537
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 6 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #328,893 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Superb Distillation, March 14, 2009

By	P. D. Schlicher "PDQ" (Clarkston, MI) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

The first two chapters of this volume are alone worth the price of this book - having read a dozen books on Debussy, including the ones the author quotes throughout, this book is most worthy of praise. The author presents in succinct and concise terms the essence of Debussy's music itself - he brilliantly captures the very vitality of Debussy's musical idea or unique treatment fully stated in a very compact form. The CD included has many of the finest performances/interpretations available as well.

The balance of the book (majority of the volume) takes you through Debussy's catalog of works, with the author observing how these musical ideas are manifested - often including the "timing" on the CD where the reader/listener can follow along, replay, and examine closely. Debussy's musical treasures reveal themselves upon replaying, relistening - this gem of a book, rewards you even sooner.

7 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars His approach is perfect for any newcomer, August 8, 2007

By	Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA) - See all my reviews

Debussy's music ranks among the most challenging: his influence on other composers makes it essential to understand his approach, but typically music students find such analysis a daunting proposition. Not so Debussy: The Quiet Revolutionary, which pairs a cd of music with an analysis of the subtleties of his works and analyzing Debussy's approach and contributions. The author is a New York critic on music and culture: his approach is perfect for any newcomer to Debussy and is especially recommended for middle to high school students receiving a strong introduction on Debussy's art and achievement.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

6 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars wonderful series/book, April 10, 2007

By	LBWheels457 (Milwaukee, WI) - See all my reviews

I have some of the other books from this Unlocking the Masters series, and they are WONDERFUL!!! Not only are they factual and informative, but they are easy to read and really show you what to look/listen for in the music! It comes with a CD which has musical examples of pieces that are talked about in the book! This book is a wonderful tool for any student!