Conducting Beethoven: Volume 1

`...this new book about performing the Beetoven symphonies will be of interest to many. ...the first of a number that the author intends to publish; others will be on Brahms, Tchaikowsky, Debussy and hopefully, on Strauss himself. ...underlines the many changes in performance practice that have taken place during this century. ...Each chapter in this new study is devoted to a single symphony. Clear technical interpretative advice predominates ...The analyses are elegantly spices with anecdotes...conductors at every stage of their careers should welcome this book and profit by its fund of practical wisdom.' Denis McCaldin, The Musical Times 'Del Mar modestly and successfully presents some of the issues facing a conductor in each symphony. His experience asa professional player and conductor, and his distinguished record as a teacher, ideally qualify him for the task. The quality of the book is in Del Mar's generous dissemination of his cast experience of practical music, in combination with his considerable experience as a writer ... Warnings of problems and various tips and alternatives abound, showing great professional attention to detail. His knowledge of discrepancies between various editions of scores and orchestral parts, and his understanding of the autograph scores, is invaluable. Also striking is his great sensitivity to players.' Brio, Autumn/Winter 1993, Vol. 30, No. 2