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Distributed for Reaktion Books

Sergei Prokofiev

A critical biography of the twentieth-century Russian composer and pianist.
 
This wide-ranging and incisive biography unfolds the life and work of the much-loved twentieth-century composer Sergei Prokofiev. In it, Christina Guillaumier reveals Prokofiev’s surprisingly optimistic spirit amidst a tumultuous backdrop of geopolitical chaos and ever-shifting musical landscapes. Guillaumier breathes life into the people and worlds that shaped Prokofiev’s complicated life, capturing the unwavering passion of a musical genius whose love for his craft transcended all barriers. This new critical account is a vivid portrait of the artist’s indomitable drive.

176 pages | 29 halftones | 5.12 x 7.87 | © 2024

Critical Lives

Biography and Letters

Music: General Music


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Reviews

"Like Prokofiev’s finest, most popular works, Guillaumier’s biography is accessible, ingratiating and economical. It’s also devoid of jargon and free of generalizations about his life as a Soviet composer."

Simon Morrison, author of 'The People’s Artist: Prokofiev’s Soviet Years'

Table of Contents

A Note on Transliteration Introduction: Prokofiev and Russia 1 The Road to Petersburg 2 Coming of Age 3 Scythian on Tour: Early Travels and Beyond 4 Transitional Years 5 The Search for a New Freedom 6 Happiness and War 7 1948 and Its Consequences References Bibliography Discography Acknowledgements Photo Acknowledgements

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