Eight Symphonic Masterworks of the Twentieth Century

Based on his decades of experience conducting these works, Leonard Slatkin delves into eight of the most beloved orchestral pieces of the twentieth century and the problems conductors face before stepping onto the podium. These works are: Claude Debussys La Mer Dmitri Shostakovichs Symphony No. 5 Bla Bartks Concerto for Orchestra Igor Stravinskys Le Sacre du printemps (The Rite of Spring) George Gershwins An American in Paris Aaron Coplands Appalachian Spring Suite Samuel Barbers Adagio for Strings Benjamin Brittens The Young Persons Guide to the Orchestra Each essay includes some history, what to understand before the first rehearsal, and an almost bar-by-bar guide to the pieces. It goes into what conductors need to know during the score study process, as well as in rehearsal and performance, to bring a work to life. Slatkin also shares many tricks of the trade aimed at making rehearsals as efficient as possible and includes engaging anecdotes useful for learning the works. These essays will open up the world of score study to conductors, other musicians, and students interested in expanding their knowledge of these eight works.