The Life and Music of James Wilson (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781782051367)

This book is the first study of the Irish composer James Wilson (1922-2005). The first part of the book is a detailed biographical study of Wilson, from his birth and education in London through his wartime experiences in the Arctic to his decision to relocate to Ireland and become a fulltime composer. It throws light on the problems composers faced in Ireland in the period 1950-2000 caused by the lack of musical infrastructures, the difficulties in obtaining performances of pieces, the variable standards of performance and criticism and the near impossibility of getting either works published or recorded. Important collaborations in Ireland and abroad are highlighted and throughout the book individual compositions are discussed to demonstrate the development of Wilson's style. The book also raises questions about the contribution of composers to Ireland's cultural heritage and how we can ensure it is not forgotten in the future.

Author: Mark Fitzgerald
ISBN-10: 1782051368
ISBN-13: 9781782051367
Publisher: Cork University Press
Language: English
Published: 06/30/2015
Pages: 246
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.20lbs
Size: 9.40h x 6.40w x 1.00d