Toru Takemitsu (1930-1996) was the best-known Japanese composer of his generation, bringing aspects of Eastern and Western traditions together, yet he remained something of an elusive figure. The composer's own commentaries about his music, poetic and philosophical in tone, have tended to deepen the mystery and much writing on Takemitsu to date has adopted a similar attitude, leaving many questions about his compositional methods unanswered. This book is the first complete study of the composer's work to appear in English. It is also the first book in this language to offer an in-depth analysis of his music. Takemitsu's works are increasingly popular with Western audiences and Peter Burt attempts for the first time to shed light on the hitherto rather secretive world of his working methods, as well as place him in context as heir to the rich tradition of Japanese composition in the twentieth century.

This book is the first complete study of Toru Takemitsu's work to appear in English.

About the Author
Peter Burt is Vice-Chairman of the Takemitsu Society in the United Kingdom and editor of the Takemitsu Society Newsletter.

Reviews
'... this is an insightful book which provides the materials for a richer understanding of this intriguing composer.' The Wire



Book Information
ISBN 9780521026956
Author Peter Burt
Format Paperback
Page Count 308
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 486g
Dimensions(mm) 245mm * 170mm * 18mm