Glenn Gould Livres

Pianist Glenn Gould (1932–82) was one of the most unique and charismatic musicians of the twentieth century, known for his interpretations of Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart at brisk tempos with remarkable clarity. A true eccentric, Gould was famous not only for his musical talent but also for his peculiar habits, such as humming during performances and wearing unconventional attire, including fingerless gloves and fur coats. In 1964, at the peak of his controversial career, he withdrew from live performances to concentrate on recording and writing. Jonathan Cott, a noted author and poet, was among the few who interviewed Gould, capturing their conversation in 1974 for Rolling Stone. After Gould's passing, Cott compiled these interviews into a collection, enhancing it with an introduction, photographs, and lists of Gould's recorded works and media appearances. In this engaging dialogue, Gould shares his opinions on various subjects, including his aversion to Mozart's piano sonatas, his preference for composers like Orlando Gibbons and Richard Strauss, and his admiration for Petula Clark, while expressing his distaste for the Beatles. This collection is widely regarded as one of Gould's finest interviews and a remarkable showcase of his personality.

Foreword by Yo-Yo Ma and Introduction by Tim Page highlight the enduring legacy of Glenn Gould, a musical genius who transcended time despite his brief life (1932-1982). Gould gained fame with his 1955 recording of Bach’s Goldberg Variations, captivating audiences with his dynamic virtuosity and passionate artistry during his nine years on the international concert circuit. In 1964, he retired from live performances to focus on recordings and documentaries. This photographic collection, featuring over 200 images, is the first dedicated to Gould's life, showcasing previously unpublished family photos from the Glenn Gould Estate, as well as rare images from CBC Archives, Sony Classical, and the National Archives of Canada. Celebrating the seventieth anniversary of his birth, the book includes insightful commentary from Tim Page and extensive captions by Malcolm Lester, the Estate's literary advisor. It also features quotes from Gould and notable figures like Leonard Bernstein and Yehudi Menuhin, creating a vibrant portrait of this unique creative genius. Yo-Yo Ma reflects on his transformative experience with Gould's music, emphasizing the profound impact it had on his own musical journey. The collection serves not only as a tribute but also as a testament to Gould's lasting influence in the world of music.

Glenn Goulds Spielweise spiegelt sich in seinem Schreiben wider: unberechenbar und provokant. Er hinterfragt und kritisiert nahezu jede musikalische "heilige Kuh", von Bach bis Boulez.