Overview

This revelatory new book takes readers far beyond most existing critical analyses of Mahler's work, escaping the tired traps of broad historical survey and formalist plot summary. Symphonic Metamorphoses considers Mahler's early practice of basing his symphonies on pre-existing songs and elaborates how this practice informs the techniques and tropes of Mahler's musico-cultural discourse, involving montage, social satire, subjectivity, autonomy, alienation, childhood, absolute music, time and cosmology. Raymond Knapp explores these themes with persuasive readings backed by impeccable scholarship, providing insights into the organic link between Mahler's music and his historo-cultural sphere. Knapp's look at Mahler is unique in terms of both the depth of its inquiry and the freshness of its approach. Symphonic Metamorphoses is a graceful and vital addition to Mahler studies and to musicological studies in general.

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9780819566362

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Reviews

Symphonic Metamorphoses is a major contribution to the study of the late romantic symphony. Knapp is a superb writer: the arguments are focused, invariably clear and jargon-free, at the same time the analyses are penetrating. - Richard Leppert, Samuel Russell Distinguished Professor of Humanities, University of Minnesota; This is a highly significant book that contributes in a profound way to research on Mahler. All musicologists should read it. Symphonic Metamorphoses breaks new ground on many levels. - Tamara Levitz, Associate Professor, McGill University

Author Information

Raymond Knapp is Associate Professor of Musicology at the University of California at Los Angeles and the author of Brahms and the Challenge of the Symphony (1997).

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