The Compleat Violinist: Thoughts, Exercises, Reflections of an Itinerant Violinist

Menuhin, Yehudi (edited by Christopher Hope)

ISBN 10: 0671612948 / ISBN 13: 9780671612948

Published by New York: Summit Books, 1986

About this Item

Small octavo. B&W illustrations. Condition: slight sun-fading to DJ spine; small edge-tear to front panel of DJ; else fine in near fine DJ. Pages: x, 148.

Seller Inventory # 7459

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Compleat Violinist: Thoughts, Exercises, Reflections of an Itinerant Violinist
• Publisher: New York: Summit Books
• Publication Date: 1986
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0671612948
• ISBN 13: 9780671612948
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Condition: Fine
• Dust Jacket Condition: Near Fine

About this title

Synopsis

The author, a priemier violinist, suggests exercises for developing technique, discusses touring, and shares his observations on music, composers, interpretation, and style

Reviews

In this indulgent hodgepodge, renowned violinist Menuhin describes the life of the itinerant musician, whom he puns "the fiddler on the hoof." Lofty ruminations ("What is there in life, after all, unless every act, every greeting, every dialogue, every cooperative effort in street and factory recognises that human life has a value and that value can be expressed in art?") are juxtaposed with exercises for the toes, arches and the like. The plodding prose meanders from discourses on why Menuhin chose the violin over piano and cello, and reflections on Mozart, Beethoven and other great composers, to what the maestro eats, wears, packs in his violin case, where he sleeps and what he considers an ideal vacation. Sprinkled throughout this slim but pricey volume are his exercises, illustrated with photos. Many are of the commonsensical stretching, breathing and relaxation variety, which are suitable for the traveling salesman as well as musician; most helpful for aspiring maestros are the series of exercises designed for the development of technique.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.

The subtitle of this disarming, endearing book describes it exactly. Menuhin shares his philosophy and preparation for performing and living in gentle, undogmatic fashion and with humor. His thoughts range from metaphysics to diet, from composers to technique, from travel to critics to self-knowledge. Interspersed are descriptions of exercises he developed for his own use as musician and violinist, copiously and clearly illustrated. While this book is addressed (though without so stating) to the young violinist, there is much for any musician here, and much for the general reader. Well and simply written, with attractive layout, though the paper and cover are of cheap quality. Highly recommended. Philippa Kiraly, Cleveland
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.