Musorgsky; Eight Essays and an Epilogue

Incorporating both new and now-classic essays, this book sets the vocal works of Modest Musorgsky in a fully detailed cultural, political, and historical context. From this perspective, Richard Taruskin revises fundamentally the composer's historical and artistic image, in particular debunking the century-old dogmas of Vladimir Stasov, Musorgsky's first biographer. Among the book's many offerings are the most complete explanation of the revision of the opera Boris Godunov, and a revisionary characterization of Khovanshchina as an aristocratic tragedy informed by a pessimistic view of history. It takes a critic of Mr. Taruskin's wide sympathies and musical acumen to steer through such rocky artistic and philosophical straits. It is unlikely that this year will see the publication of a more engrossing or more valuable book about music. Donald Henahan, The New York Times Book Review The merit of Taruskin's essays lies in his clear, highly readable style, which constantly keeps the reader's interest.... A major achievement. Opera News Richard Taruskin's ... book reaffirms his position as the pre-eminent American historian of Russian music. He is the scholar who pursues the 'real Musorgsky' with beguiling zest, deep erudition, abiding philology, and thoroughly appropriate irreverence. Thomas P. Hodge, The New RepublicTaruskin, Richard F. is the author of 'Musorgsky; Eight Essays and an Epilogue' with ISBN 9780691091471 and ISBN 0691091471.