Elliott Carter's Late Music

This book explores Elliott Carter's late music, placing it in the context of post-war contemporary concert music and discussing his reception history, aesthetics, harmonic and rhythmic practice, and settings of contemporary modernist poetry. It illuminates a body of late work that stands at the forefront of Carter's achievements.

Format: Hardback
Length: 510 pages
Publication date: 27 January 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This comprehensive study delves into the late musical compositions of one of the most influential composers of the past half-century. By contextualizing Elliott Carter's music from 1995 to 2012 within the broader realm of post-war contemporary concert music, including his earlier works, the book offers a profound exploration of his artistic journey. It addresses various aspects of Carter's reception history, aesthetics, harmonic and rhythmic practices, and provides in-depth essays on all of his major compositions after 1995. A particular focus is placed on his captivating settings of contemporary modernist poetry, ranging from John Ashbery to Louis Zukofsky. Written in a readable and engaging style, Elliott Carter's Late Music sheds light on a body of late work that stands as a testament to the composer's unparalleled achievements.

Introduction:
Elliott Carter, a renowned American composer, has left an indelible mark on the musical landscape with his diverse and influential compositions. His late music, spanning from 1995 to 2012, represents a significant chapter in his artistic journey. This study aims to provide a comprehensive examination of Carter's late compositions, placing them within the broader context of post-war contemporary concert music.

Reception History:
The book delves into Carter's reception history, exploring how his music has been received by audiences and critics over the years. It examines the critical reception of his works, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses and examining the impact they have had on the musical world. The study also explores the influence of Carter's style, techniques, and aesthetic choices on his reception and how they have shaped his artistic identity.

Aesthetics:
In addition to examining Carter's reception history, the book also explores his aesthetics. It examines the philosophical underpinnings of his compositions, the role of imagination and creativity in his music, and the influence of other artistic disciplines on his work. The study also explores Carter's use of symbolism, metaphor, and narrative elements in his compositions, as well as his exploration of different musical styles and genres.

Harmonic and Rhythmic Practice:
The book provides a detailed analysis of Carter's harmonic and rhythmic practice. It examines his use of complex tonal structures, his exploration of unconventional harmonies, and his use of rhythmic patterns and motifs. The study also explores Carter's use of polyrhythms, syncopation, and irregular meters, as well as his incorporation of non-Western musical traditions into his compositions.

Major Works after 1995:
The book includes detailed essays on all of Carter's major works after 1995. These essays provide a comprehensive overview of each composition, exploring its themes, structure, and musical innovations. The essays also discuss the historical and cultural contexts in which the works were created, as well as the influences and inspirations that shaped them.

Settings of Contemporary Modernist Poetry:
A significant emphasis is placed on Carter's settings of contemporary modernist poetry. The book explores his collaborations with poets such as John Ashbery, Louis Zukofsky, and Jorie Graham, and how his music responds to the poetic language and imagery. The study also examines the ways in which Carter's music enhances the meaning and impact of the poetry, and how it contributes to the broader artistic discourse.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Elliott Carter's Late Music is a valuable contribution to the study of contemporary concert music. By contextualizing his late compositions within the broader realm of post-war contemporary music, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of his artistic journey. Through its examination of reception history, aesthetics, harmonic and rhythmic practice, and settings of contemporary modernist poetry, the book provides a deep understanding of Carter's unique musical voice and his enduring impact on the musical world.

Weight: 1090g
Dimension: 179 x 252 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780521769761
Edition number: New ed