Description: This volume assesses Messiaen's position as a creative artist of the twentieth century in the light of the latest research. In the process, it identifies some of the key myths, confusions and exaggerations surrounding the composer which often mask equally remarkable truths. In attempting to reveal some of those truths, the essays elucidate a little of the mystery surrounding Messiaen as a man, an artist, a believer and a musician.
Review Quotes: 'An extremely valuable collection of essays on the life and works of Olivier Messiaen. This book should be of tremendous usefulness to Messiaen scholars worldwide.' Rebecca Rischin, Ohio University, USA � For quality and depth of scholarship, I cannot speak too highly of it ... an altogether impressive volume.� (Five star rating) BBC Music Magazine �The book has been expertly put together... Together all these chapters make a vital contribution to Messiaen research.� The Tablet �...offers a fresh look at specific, and perhaps downplayed, aspects of Messiaen�s work...these essays look at some of the influences most essential for a complete understanding of Messiaen�s music. Recommended.� Choice �Anyone approaching the great French innovator for the first time will need to read Olivier Messiaen: Music, Art and Literature.� Times Literary Supplement �Cette publication marque une �pe importante dans la litt�ture consacr�à Olivier Messiaen en venant combler des lacunes dans la connaissance d�un certain nombre d��sodes de sa carri�... Dans sa diversit�cet ouvrage constitue une pierre d�angle dans une musicologie messiaenienne en pleine �lution.� Revue de Musicologie �... Olivier Messaien...is commendable for bringing to light a wealth of primary sources, some of which will surely provide useful avenues for those who endeavor to reach out for even more enlightened understanding of the man apart,� his music, and his time.� Journal of the American Musicological Society