The Music Criticism of Hugo Wolf

Abstract

JSTOR is a not-for-profit service that helps scholars, researchers, and students discover, use, and build upon a wide range of content in a trusted digital archive. We use information technology and tools to increase productivity and facilitate new forms of scholarship. For more information about JSTOR, please contact support@jstor.org.. Music Library Association is collaborating with JSTOR to digitize, preserve and extend access to Notes. a tersely enlightening explanation of the problem of conflicting performing editions which will be valuable to all but the most learned Brucknerites.Matthews's work is a delightful complement to Evans's venerable Handbook to the Pianoforte Works ofJohannes Brahms (London, 1936). As a seasoned concert performer, he gives valuable insights into the inner workings and idiosyncracies of Brahms, showing sympathy for his genius tempered by wry appreciation of some persistent, less-inspired mannerisms. Unlike Evans, he doen't discuss the concertos or the organ music, but his dry zest is a refreshing contrast to the encyclopedic detail and worshipful homage of that pompous gentleman.Ottaway's survey fills the largest gap. It is only seven years since Shostakovich's final symphony, and four years since his death. Analyses of many of the symphonies, especially those with overt political content, have been neither plentiful nor judicious. Moreover, the last three symphonies are unique in form and content, marking a radical departure from his procedures of the preceding thirty years. Ottaway writes cogently about each one separately, at the same time viewing the entire corpus, and venturing strong opinions uncolored by extramusical considerations. At the same time, he is delicately attuned to the social context and its shaping influence on this inordinately sensitive artist. This little guide is multum in parvo, and will continue to serve well after more ambitious studies of the music have been carried out.These four slim volumes represent permanent value for all music libraries serving an informed public. They are recommended without reservation.