Sondheim on Music: Minor Details and Major Decisions FROM THE PUBLISHER
"Over a three-day period in 1997, Mark Eden Horowitz sat down with Stephen Sondheim in his Turtle Bay home and explored Sondheim's creative process. Beginning with a discussion of his latest work, Passion, and working back in time to Pacific Overtures, this collection of interviews details Sondheim's meticulous work as a composer. Among the topics discussed are Sondheim's approaches to dramatizing with music and lyrics; the creation and use of motifs and thematic material; the use of harmony, melody, and rhythm to reflect character; the structuring of a score; the use of pastiche; and the practical aspects of collaboration. The conversations also include amusing anecdotes about his shows, Sondheim's musings on art and musical theater, reflections on the evolution of theater music, and thoughts on the influences of those who came before him." In addition, the book includes Sondheim's list of "Songs I Wish I'd Written (At Least in Part)," his reasons behind some of those choices, and messages he received from composers and lyricists whose songs were included on the list. The work is complemented by a comprehensive listing of all of Sondheim's musical works - the most complete discography of Sondheim recordings to date - and publishing information for all his songs and scores, including vocal ranges.
SYNOPSIS
Horowitz, senior music specialist and archivist at the Library of Congress, presents the results of a three-day series of interviews with celebrated musical composer Stephen Sondheim. Topics addressed include his approach to musical and lyrical drama, the creation and use of motifs and themes, the use of harmony, melody, and rhythm, and the structure of the score, as well as anecdotes and musings. Includes selections of musical scores. Annotation (c)2003 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR
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