The Joy of Music Book

Leonard Bernstein was one of the twentieth century?s preeminent American composers. This classic work, perhaps the maestro?s finest collection of conversations on the meaning and wonder of music, is now available in this special reprinting with a foreword from Pulitzer Prize-winning writer and Washington Post music critic Tim Page. Nearly fifteen years after Bernstein?s death, The Joy of Music continues to be a must-have for all music fans?both inside and outside of the classroom?who wish to experience music more fully and deeply through one of the most inspired, and inspiring, music intellects of our time.

Employing the creative device of "Imaginary Conversations" in the first section of his book, Bernstein illuminates the importance of the symphony in America, the greatness of Beethoven, and the art of composing. The book also includes a photo section and a third section with the transcripts from his televised Omnibus music series, including "Beethoven?s Fifth Symphony," "The World of Jazz," "Introduction to Modern Music," and "What Makes Opera Grand."