Olivier Messiaen : a critical biography /

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Includes bibliographical references (pages 239-244), discography (pages 189-192), and index.Introduction: 'All the birds of the stars' -- On beginnings -- On becoming 'Messiaen' -- On Messiaen and the Second World War, 1939-45 -- On surrealism and experimentation, 1945-51 -- On birdsong, 1952-63 -- On influence -- On the monumental, 1964-83 -- On final works and legacy."This groundbreaking biography offers fresh perspectives on the life, ideas and music of French twentieth-century composer, organist and ornithologist Olivier Messiaen. Drawing on previously unexplored sketches and archival material, Robert Sholl seamlessly combines elements of biography, musicology, theology, philosophy, psychoanalysis and aesthetics to present a nuanced perspective on Messiaen’s work. This book examines the profound impact of Messiaen’s devout Catholicism, which found expression through his work as a church organist, his engagement with birdsong, his interaction with Surrealism and his influence on major musical figures of the latter twentieth century. Unlike previous biographies, this book also considers the perspectives of Messiaen’s contemporaries and students, providing a comprehensive understanding of his life and artistic legacy."--Publisher's description.