Anton Von Webern

Part of the 20th Century Composers series.

Anton von Webern's reputation as the originator of avant-garde music has conspired against a true recognition of one of the twentieth century's greatest composers. In this unique biography, Malcolm Hayes sets Webern's radical technical advances against the Romantic inheritance of nineteenth-century Austro-Germany, tracing the development of a man and his music.

Born into the Imperial, musical heritage of Vienna, Webern became captivated by Renaissance vocal music, and this student passion was to haunt his compositions all his life. A pupil of Schoenberg, he also came to use the twelve-note method, and combined this with his love of chamber music to create a sound that is entirely his own. Despite a prolific rate of composition in his early years, Webern's music output is small and tends to extreme brevity. Tragically, he was accidentally shot and killed in the Allied occupation of Austria. His work has continued to influence musicians throughout the twentieth century.

For those seeking a deeper enjoyment or understanding of Webern's work, this fluent introduction to the man and his music makes essential reading. In discovering the motivations behind this pioneering artist, Hayes provides a point of access to his music, making this a vital and imaginative work of reference.

Includes black-and-white illustrations.