Part of the acclaimed "Unlocking the Maters" series from Amadeus Press, this book is a fascinating look at the life and works of a brilliant composer. Frederic Chopin died a famous man with his place in the musical pantheon secure. This listener's guide takes a detailed tour through the life and oeuvre of the sovereign master of the keyboard. The composer's adaptation of the melodic structures of Italian opera and the folk music of his native Poland for the resources of the piano are examined in detail, as are the originality and boldness he displayed throughout his tragically short but astonishing career. The book is accompanied by a CD containing 15 complete compositions and one full movement from his "Piano Sonata No. 2", performed by pianist Idil Biret, from her complete survey of the composer's music on the Naxos label.

Author Biography

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