Death on the Down Beat: An Orchestral Fantasy of Detection

Based on the provided content: In Maningpool Civic Hall, Sir Noel Grampian, a talented yet obnoxious conductor, is shot dead in full view of the Municipal Orchestra and the audience. D.I. Alan Hope investigates the case, which is underscored by the authors extensive experience of the highly-strung world of music professionals, and is told through letters and documents sent by Hope to his wife. This new edition returns Farrs only crime novel to print to receive its long-deserved encore.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 10 September 2022
Publisher: British Library Publishing

In the heart of Maningpool Civic Hall, a rousing Strauss piece reaches its crescendo, accompanied by the talented yet obnoxious conductor Sir Noel Grampian. However, the atmosphere turns tragic as Sir Noel is suddenly shot dead, right in front of the Municipal Orchestra and the audience. While it was no secret that he had numerous enemies, including musicians and music critics, the circumstances of his death suggest an act of calculated coldness.

The story unfolds through a series of letters and documents sent by D.I. Alan Hope to his wife as he embarks on a daunting task of puzzling through a vast pool of suspects and scant physical evidence in the case. The author's extensive experience in the highly-strung world of music professionals adds an innovative and playful dimension to the mystery.

Originally published in 1941, this new edition brings Farr's only crime novel back into print, granting it the long-deserved encore it deserves. The novel captivates readers with its intricate plot, compelling characters, and vivid portrayal of the world of music and its passionate practitioners.

As the investigation unfolds, D.I. Hope encounters a diverse range of characters, each with their own motivations and secrets. From the enigmatic musicians to the influential music critics, each person contributes to the puzzle of Sir Noel's murder. The author skillfully weaves together the threads of the investigation, leading the reader on a thrilling journey through the world of music and its darker underbelly.

The novel also delves into the complexities of human relationships, particularly the dynamics between musicians and their conductors. Sir Noel's relationship with the Municipal Orchestra is portrayed as strained, marked by mutual respect and competition. The tension between the two is palpable, and it becomes increasingly clear that there were underlying conflicts that could have led to his murder.

The investigation takes D.I. Hope to various locations, including concert halls, recording studios, and private residences. Each setting adds to the atmosphere of the mystery, as the author skillfully describes the music and the musicians who perform it. The descriptions are vivid and evocative, allowing readers to feel a sense of immersion in the world of music.

In addition to the mystery itself, the novel explores themes of power, jealousy, and the consequences of one's actions. Sir Noel's enemies may have had personal grievances against him, but their actions also reflect the broader power dynamics within the music industry. The novel sheds light on the competitive nature of the profession, the pressures to perform, and the sacrifices that musicians make to achieve success.

Overall, "The Music of the Night" is a captivating and innovative crime novel that delves into the world of music and its darker aspects. With its intricate plot, compelling characters, and vivid portrayal of the music industry, the novel offers a thrilling and thought-provoking experience for readers. Whether you are a music lover or a fan of mystery fiction, this novel is sure to captivate your attention and leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

Weight: 202g
Dimension: 130 x 190 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780712354028