Contemporary American Composers / Being a Study of the Music of This Country, Its Present / Conditions and Its Future, with Critical Estimates and / Biographies of the Principal Living Composers; and an / Abundance of Portraits, Fac-simile Musical Autographs, and / Compositions

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

23800

Title

Contemporary American Composers / Being a Study of the Music of This Country, Its Present / Conditions and Its Future, with Critical Estimates and / Biographies of the Principal Living Composers; and an / Abundance of Portraits, Fac-simile Musical Autographs, and / Compositions

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Rupert Hughes offers a spirited defense of American music, arguing that a distinct national school exists despite early reliance on European methods. This volume provides critical estimates and biographies of principal living composers, featuring fac-simile musical autographs and portraits to illuminate the country's present conditions and future potential.

Summary up to 500 words

In his pioneering study, *Contemporary American Composers*, Rupert Hughes asserts that American music has evolved beyond mere discipleship of European masters to establish its own individuality. Hughes critiques the historical lack of national character caused by Puritan influences and the absence of a native master, yet he confidently declares that high-quality music is being written at home. The book serves as both a survey and a manifesto, correcting the bias of existing literature by basing its content on Hughes's own extensive research into manuscripts and published works. He profiles a diverse array of composers, including Edward MacDowell, who successfully blended impressionism with American themes like Indian lore; Edgar Stillman Kelley, whose innovative rhythms and solid melodramatic works earned him high praise; and Ethelbert Nevin, celebrated for his lyrical songs and cosmopolitan style. Hughes also highlights the contributions of women composers and foreign residents who shaped the landscape. Throughout the text, he champions the idea that many American artists possess genius often overshadowed by a few titanic contemporaries. By analyzing specific works such as MacDowell's "Indian Suite" and Nevin's "May in Tuscany," Hughes demonstrates the depth, breadth, and tragic power inherent in native compositions. The book concludes with a call to action, urging readers to study American music with the same enthusiasm once reserved for European classics, thereby securing a lasting place for these musicians in the global canon.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Biography
• Music History