This is the first major reference work on this important choral composer. As is usual for volumes in this valuable series, the book is clearly printed and well bound, and it is highly recommended for undergraduate and graduate music collections as well as for public libraries serving communities with active choral societies. Choice
When Randall Thompson died in 1984, America lost one of its most distinguished musicians. At the time of his death, it was already apparent that an assessment of his varied contributions to our musical life in the context of his contemporary generation was sorely needed. Randall Thompson: A Bio-Bibliography is the first comprehensive study of Thompson's oeuvre since his death.
The volume is organized into five parts, beginning with a substantial biography written by David Francis Urrows, Thompson's final student and amanuensis. Urrows presents new information on Thompson's youth, his study in Italy and the influence of Malipiero on his work, his educational and compositional philosophy, and his role in the emergence of American music from the influence of European models. Benser's most complete catalog of works compiled to date follows. This vital list includes previously unpublished compositions, particularly those newly made available by Thompson's longtime publisher, E. C. Schirmer, and new recordings made by Bay Cities Music. A sampling of prose writings by Thompson offers a eclectic overview. The complete, extensively annotated bibliography, discography, and two appendixes that list Thompson's compositions chronologically and alphabetically complete this study. Music libraries will want to add this volume to their collections. It will also be an invaluable reference for choral directors, program note annotators, and American music enthusiasts.
