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Why Mahler?

How One Man and Ten Symphonies Changed Our World
by Norman Lebrecht
Why Mahler?: How One Man and Ten Symphonies Changed Our World. Pantheon. Oct. 2010. c.336p. bibliog. index. ISBN 9780375423819. $27.95. MUSIC
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Lebrecht (Mahler Remembered; The Life and Death of Classical Music) presents a highly personal view of Gustav Mahler and the reasons behind the increasing popularity of his music. Using Mahler's biography, which occupies the majority of the book and features historical background, Lebrecht weaves a fascinating study that includes wide-ranging references to literature, politics, art, sociology, and popular music. Lebrecht's primary thesis is that Mahler's music, more than that of any other composer, invites highly personal and extremely varied interpretations—a point emphasized by including descriptions of numerous recordings by famous musicians over the last 80 years. The book is skillfully written and clearly—even passionately—reasoned.
VERDICT This is music history, criticism, and biography at its best. A treasure trove for Mahler fans, this is also likely to convert even the most obstinate detractor. Highly recommended for all music lovers.
Reviewed by Timothy J. McGee, Trent Univ., Peterborough, Ont. , Sep 01, 2010
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