Glass: A Portrait

Rating:
Summary: Not really a biography, but a terrific reference book
Review: Finally there's a comprehensive book about Glass and his music, with a musicologist's approach.
I think it's exactly the book that was needed, because, even if traces mr.Glass's biography in very broad strokes, the book is more of anan analysis of his music in its different forms.
I think it's a terrific book because:
1- It's by an independent writer, so no hagiography, but a very objective and interesting analysis, all the more valuable for that.
For example, the author is not shy of talkingabout controversial issues, like the critics' attitude towards mr.Glass. (you know, those guys that sneer at his music because it does
not conform to the standards they already have pre-set in their minds)
2- The general tone is that of a vey well-researched and authoritative (if somewhat kinda too concise) book, aimed perhaps more to the informed listener than to the professional musician, which is just fine with me.
It is, actually, a very readable book, especially enlightening when explaining Glass's musical evolution. It really gives you the idea of how and why the music has evolved the way it did.
3- The descriptions of the pieces are great. They're just
like very well written but concise program notes, which is
nothing less than what this marvelous music deserves.
To give you an idea, it's so refreshing to read about the Low Symphony discussed in the same terms of a mainstream full-fledged classical symphony! (which is exactly what it is, in its peculiarly Glassian way)
4- The writer had mr.Glass's endorsement, so there are a few illuminating interviews and, above all,tantalizing descriptions of the pieces that aren't yet recorded , like symphony 6, cello and piano concertos, because the author could listen to the composers' tapes from the performances.
( as you will have gathered, this book is VERY up-to-date)
By the way, are you guys at Nonesuch sleeping? Where the hell are those cd's?? Just reading mr. Maycock's enthusiastic description of the 6th symphony gave me a glance at what we're missing. I know corporate guys don't really care about the music, but hey, Glass SELLS!!
A few minor quibbles: there are no photos and the chronological list of works that closes the book is a bit too concise ( usually in such lists you also get details like first performance, recordings etc.)
Strongly recommended, nonetheless.