3 Review(s)

Richard Rodney Bennett is one of Britain's most distinguished, versatile, and prolific twentieth century composers. His music ranges across a broad spectrum of styles from opera and ballet through orchestral and chamber music to jazz. This book, the first ever to be published about Bennett, documents his vast and ever increasing output. It consists of a brief biography; a detailed list of works and performances, classified by genre and then arranged alphabetically by title of composition; a list of Bennett's publishers; a discography of commerically and privately produced sound recordings; and an annotated bibliography of writings by and about Bennett, including reviews of performances of his works. Alphabetical and chronological lists of his main compositions and a complete general index conclude the volume. Stewart Craggs' bio-bibliography is a significant contribution to the study of contemporary music. This first book-length study of Richard Rodney Bennett to be published provides unique information about an important twentieth century composer. For those already familiar with Bennett's art, it offers complete discographic and bibliographic information, permitting further study and enjoyment. This book belongs in all music libraries.