Music for Life: 100 Works to Carry You Through

Music reflects the key moments in our lives, and Fiona Maddocks selects 100 classical works to argue for their inclusion, discussing omissions, suggesting alternatives, and putting the music first.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 02 August 2018
Publisher: Faber & Faber

How does music reflect the key moments in our lives?

How do we choose the works that inspire, delight, comfort, or console us?

Fiona Maddocks selects 100 classical works from across nine centuries, arguing passionately, persuasively, and at times obstinately for their inclusion, putting each work in its cultural and musical context, discussing omissions, suggesting alternatives, and always putting the music first.

In her book, "The Classical 100: A Personal Journey Through the Greatest Music of All Time," Fiona Maddocks takes readers on a captivating journey through the world of classical music. She argues that classical music has the power to reflect and shape the key moments in our lives, from birth and childhood to love and loss, and everything in between.

Maddocks selects 100 classical works from across nine centuries, each chosen for its unique ability to capture the essence of a particular moment or emotion. From the soaring melodies of Bach's "Air on the G String" to the heartbreaking beauty of Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata," these works showcase the immense range and depth of classical music.

Through her meticulous research and insightful commentary, Maddocks places each work in its cultural and musical context, discussing the influences and inspirations behind the compositions. She also explores the omissions and alternative choices that could have been made, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the artistic process.

What sets "The Classical 100" apart is Maddocks' passionate advocacy for classical music. She argues that classical music is often undervalued and misunderstood, and that it deserves to be celebrated and appreciated by a wider audience. Maddocks encourages readers to explore the vast world of classical music, to listen with open ears and to discover the beauty and power that lies within these timeless compositions.

In conclusion, "The Classical 100" is a must-read for anyone who loves music, or who is curious about the power of classical music to shape our lives. Fiona Maddocks' passionate and insightful commentary provides a fresh perspective on the greatest music of all time, and her selection of 100 classical works is a testament to the enduring beauty and relevance of this genre.

Weight: 180g
Dimension: 193 x 139 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571342747
Edition number: Main