'Stories of Symphonic Music' Summary

In his book Stories of Symphonic Music, Lawrence Gilman invites the reader on a journey through the world of classical music. Gilman, a music critic and journalist, was one of the most respected voices on classical music in his time. He was known for his passionate and eloquent writing, and his ability to make complex musical concepts accessible to a general audience.

In Stories of Symphonic Music, Gilman takes us on a tour of the history of the symphony orchestra, from its humble beginnings in the 17th century to its current place as one of the most beloved and enduring forms of musical expression. He also examines the works of some of the greatest composers in history, including Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, and Tchaikovsky, and offers his own insights into their music.

But Stories of Symphonic Music is more than just a music history book. It is also a celebration of the power of music to move and inspire us. Gilman writes with passion and eloquence about the way that music can touch our hearts and souls. He shares his own personal stories and reflections, and he invites us to do the same.

One of the most striking things about Stories of Symphonic Music is Gilman's ability to bring the music to life for the reader. He paints vivid word pictures of the different instruments and their roles in the orchestra. He also describes the emotional impact of the music in a way that is both insightful and evocative.

For example, in his essay on Beethoven's Fifth Symphony, Gilman writes:

"The opening four notes of the Fifth Symphony are like a challenge flung down to the world. They are a bold, defiant statement of purpose. And then, the music takes us on a journey through all the human emotions: from the depths of despair to the heights of joy."

Gilman's writing is also full of personal stories and anecdotes. He shares his own memories of hearing the music for the first time, and he reflects on the way that the music has shaped his own life.

For example, in his essay on Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake, Gilman writes:

"I was ten years old when I first heard Swan Lake. I was sitting in the balcony of the Metropolitan Opera House, and I was completely mesmerized by the music. I had never heard anything so beautiful and so haunting in my life."

Stories of Symphonic Music is a book for anyone who loves music. It is a book that will teach you about the history of the symphony orchestra and the works of some of the greatest composers in history. But it is also a book that will make you appreciate the beauty and power of music in a whole new way.

Gilman's book is a reminder that music is more than just a collection of notes. It is a language that speaks to our hearts and souls. It is a language that can move us to tears, make us laugh, and fill us with hope.