" . . . a rare kind of biography and autobiography: a clear and elegant exposition of fact, as well as a humane portrait of a great piano virtuoso, composer, teacher, and democratic soul, as told to and seen through the eyes of one close to him." -Mark Mitchell

Ernst von Dohnanyi (1877-1960) was one of the most highly respected musicians of his time. The young Dohnanyi enjoyed an international prestige that brought him into contact with such 19th-century masters as Johannes Brahms and Eugene d'Albert. He is remembered for his technique and interpretive skills as a pianist and conductor, as well as for the masterpieces he composed for piano, chamber ensembles, and orchestra. As a teacher and administrator, Dohnanyi was responsible for the training of an entire generation of musicians in Hungary, and for helping to shape the country's musical culture. After World War II, his career foundered when he was falsely accused of being a Nazi sympathizer. In 1953, at the age of 76, Dohnanyi returned to international prominence with a triumphant "re-debut" at Carnegie Hall. Ernst von Dohnanyi: A Song of Life, written from a firsthand perspective by Dohnanyi's widow, is the first full English-language biography of the artist.

The first complete English-language biography of the legendary Hungarian pianist, composer, conductor, and pedagogue.

About the Author

Ilona von Dohnanyi (1909-1988) was a journalist and historical novelist who also wrote biographies of composers Vincenzo Bellini, Gaetano Donizetti, Gioacchino Rossini, and Robert and Clara Schumann. Her other books include From Death to Life and Message to Posterity from Ernst von Dohnanyi.

James A. Grymes established the Ernst von Dohnanyi Collection at Florida State University. The author of Ernst von Dohnanyi: A Bio-Bibliography, his research has appeared in such journals as Music Library Association Notes and Studia Musicologica Academiae Scientiarum Hungaricae.

Reviews

[This] engaging narration by Ilona von Dohnanyi presents a vibrant picture of a musician of exceptional stature, gifted with a resilient personality, incredible energy and admirable strength of character. 9/11/15

-- Guy Sauve * Passion Musique et Culture *

Ilona von Dohnanyi has written a very moving memoir of her famous husband. . . . She paints a compelling portrait of the man and his dramatic life and times.

* Stringendo *

. . . this first biography in English is intriguing and most welcome . . . and full of details about this brilliant musician and his time. Highly recommended to all readers. January 2003

-- -J. L. Patterson, University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire * Choice *



Book Information
ISBN 9780253341037
Author Ilona Von Dohnanyi
Format Hardback
Page Count 272
Imprint Indiana University Press
Publisher Indiana University Press