Reviews
A diverse collection of twelve essays by outstanding Berlioz scholars. . . . The range of topics covered could scarcely be wider. . . . Barzun examines . . . music's ability to express -- and arouse -- emotions. . . . Gérard Condé's excellently written essay "Berlioz as Composer-Critic" shows the great value of Berlioz's journalism. . . . Hugh Macdonald convincingly speculates that much of Berlioz's initial excitement with Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet . . . became absorbed into the Fantastic Symphony. . . . David Cairns adds wisdom and discernment. . . Readers with a special passion for Berlioz will derive great enjoyment from this admirably produced collection. Philip Borg-Wheeler, CLASSICAL MUSIC MAGAZINE

For all lovers of Berlioz, a splendid book from the leading experts on his life and music: detailed analysis of the music, large scraps of small histories, and an essay from Jacques Barzun on the possibility of the meaning of music. Go out and buy it! -- Sir Colin Davis

These dozen pieces of vibrant scholarship and analysis, from familiar voices and new ones, kick off Berlioz's third century splendidly. Berlioz here receives his "due place" (to borrow Jacques Barzun's phrase) as the focus of serious thought and passionate response about topics as varied as the origins of Roméo et Juliette and responses to Berlioz's music during his concert tours of Germany and England. --D. Kern Holoman, author of Berlioz and The Société des Concerts du Conservatoire, 1828-1967

This volume is entertainingly and expertly written by leading scholars. It sums up recent thinking about Hector Berlioz and his world, and it points the way for future work. Indispensable for those who love Berlioz's music. --Thomas Forrest Kelly, author of First Nights: Five Musical Premieres, and First Nights at the Opera