Overview

This book is devoted to one of the world’s greatest late twentieth-century symphonists, Chinese composer Zhu Jianer. Each of his 10 symphonies is discussed in detail and can be grouped into such concepts as the Cultural Revolution (nos. 1-2), an emphasis on human topics (nos. 3-4-5), and his continuous expansion of traditional symphonic boundaries (nos. 6-7-8-9-10). Zhu’s symphonies can be relevant to all peoples and all cultures due to his concern for heaven, earth, and humankind. This in-depth discussion of Chinese and Western elements in Zhu’s symphonies includes such topics as his free use of twelve-tone rows, his exploration of sound possibilities, his diverse and fascinating approaches to musical form, the concept of the lonely individual struggling within a decadent society, and his belief that humans must be ethical and responsible to ensure future hope for humankind. Courses in symphonic literature, Asian composers, or intercultural composers would benefit significantly from this book.

Full Product Details

9781433189739

Table of Contents

Reviews

Zhu Jianer was the foremost symphonic composer of his generation whose works set milestones for Chinese music in the 20th century. His cycle of ten symphonies, begun when the composer was at the age of 64, is the focus of John Robison's book-the first comprehensive study of these extraordinary works published in English. It is an indispensable volume for anyone interested in Chinese contemporary music, as well as the Chinese intellectual movement of this momentous period. -Lei Liang, Chancellor's Distinguished Professor of Music, University of California, San Diego; Winner of the 2021 Grawemeyer Award for Music Composition John Robison's insightful and illuminating study on the ten symphonies of Chinese composer Zhu Jianer is an important contribution to both the growing English-language scholarship on twentieth-century Chinese music and the enduring heritage of the symphonic genre. Robison convincingly demonstrates why these works matter, what makes them distinctive, and how Zhu, a composer largely unknown outside of China, has conceptualized the idea of a symphony and realized it in his own creative output. -William Everett, Professor Emeritus of Musicology, The University of Missouri-Kansas City

Author Information

John O. Robison holds his doctoral degree in musicology from Stanford University. He has been a musicology professor at University of South Florida since 1977. His previous publications include books on Johann Klemm’s fugues, Korean women composers, Chinese composer Wang Xilin, and Indian composer John Mayer.

Tab Content 6

Countries Available