The Standard Cantatas: Their Stories, Their Music, and Their Composers / A Handbook

Name: The Standard Cantatas: Their Stories, Their Music, and Their Composers / A Handbook
Author: George P. Upton

By George P. Upton

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About This Book

The volume surveys the cantata as a musical form, tracing its evolution from early recitative and solo airs to larger concert pieces bordering on opera and oratorio. It offers concise histories and musical sketches of many standard cantatas, short biographies of their composers, and assessments of works that are performed on the concert stage without theatrical staging. Special attention is given to notable contributions by American composers, and an appendix compiles verified dates and essential reference details. The text is written as a nontechnical handbook intended to introduce general readers to the stories, structure, and musical character of representative cantatas.

About the Author

George P. Upton

George P. Upton was an American author and musicologist known for his contributions to the understanding of operatic and musical literature. He is particularly recognized for his works that explore the plots, music, and composers of various musical forms, including operas, light operas, and cantatas. His notable titles include "The Standard Operas: Their Plots, Their Music, and Their Composers" and "The Standard Cantatas: Their Stories, Their Music, and Their Composers / A Handbook." Upton's writings serve as valuable resources for both music enthusiasts and scholars, providing insights into the narratives and compositions that shape the musical canon.