James MacMillan Studies

This collection of essays explores Sir James MacMillan's musical works from analytical, musicological, and theological perspectives, examining embodiment, lament, borrowing, liturgy, and other works. It offers fresh insights into MacMillan's musical world and relationship to modernity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Sir James MacMillan, a renowned Scottish composer, stands as a prominent figure in contemporary music, garnering international recognition for his innovative approach to incorporating religious imagery and narratives into his compositions. This comprehensive collection of scholarly essays, preceded by a substantial foreword penned by the composer himself, presents a diverse range of analytical, musicological, and theological perspectives on a selection of MacMillan's musical works. The volume encompasses a comprehensive study of embodiment in MacMillan's music, exploring how his compositions evoke physical sensations and emotions. Additionally, it delves into a theological exploration of his St. Luke Passion, examining the spiritual and theological dimensions of the work. Furthermore, the volume explores the significance of lament in various MacMillan compositions, highlighting its role in expressing grief, loss, and longing. It also examines the centrality of musical borrowing in MacMillan's practice, discussing how he incorporates elements from different musical traditions to create his unique musical language. The chapters further delve into MacMillan's liturgical music, examining how his compositions are designed for religious ceremonies and their impact on worshipers. Moreover, detailed analyses of other notable works, such as The World's Ransoming and the seminal Seven Last Words from the Cross, are provided, offering fresh insights into MacMillan's musical world, compositional practice, and his relationship to modernity.

The chapters in this collection serve as valuable contributions to the study of MacMillan's music, providing new insights into his creative process, theological influences, and the broader context of contemporary music. By exploring these diverse perspectives, readers gain a deeper understanding of MacMillan's artistic achievements and their enduring impact on the musical landscape.

Weight: 456g
Dimension: 170 x 243 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108716871