Cuthbert Girdlestone: Jean-Philippe Rameau: His Life and Work

The definitive biography and critical study of Jean-Philippe Rameau (1683-1764), this volume deals at length not only with with the composer's musical achievements but also with aspects of his life and workthat made him one of the most important cultural figures in eighteenth-century France. Fascinating incidents include his central position in a musical controversy that excited the enmity of Rousseau, Diderot, and theEncyclopedists; his friendship and collaboration with Voltaire; and his position as the author of a treatise on harmony that endured for two centuries.

This critical evaluation focuses chiefly on Rameau's musical works,devoting entire chapters to his operas and ballets as well as his chamber music, cantatas and motets, and minor works. Additional topics include his links to Lully, his influence on Gluck, and the nature and importance of hisacoustic and harmonic theories. Supplements include more than 300 musical examples, numerous useful approaches, indexes, an extensive bibliography, and a new introduction by the distinguished musicologist and historian PhilipGossett.