Eight Symphonic Masterworks of the Twentieth Century

Based on a lifetime of experience conducting these works, Leonard Slatkin guides readers through eight beloved orchestral pieces.

Copland: Symphony No. 3
Elgar: Variations on an Original Theme (“Enigma” Variations)
Holst: The Planets
Stravinsky: Suite from The Firebird (1919)
Prokofiev: Symphony No. 5
Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 2
Ravel: Daphnis et Chloé, Suite No. 2
Vaughan Williams: Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis

Slatkin tackles problems conductors face before stepping onto the podium and highlights the many decisions they make during the study process, as well as in rehearsal and performance, to bring a score to life. He also shares tricks of the trade for leading efficient rehearsals and recounts engaging anecdotes from a lifetime of music making.

This book will open the world of score study to conductors, other musicians, and students interested in expanding their knowledge of this essential repertoire. Volume 1 includes other orchestral works by Debussy, Shostakovich, Bartok, Stravinsky, Gershwin, Copland, Barber, and Britten.