Arthur Sullivan: A Victorian Musician

by Arthur Jacobs

Remembered primarily for his collaborations with William Gilbert, Arthur Sullivan was considered the most prodigiously gifted English composer since Purcell. Yet his choral and orchestral works, which he considered to be his real work, are forgotten; indeed, they were not a success when
originally performed. On closer inspection, Sullivan becomes an his diaries contain many cryptic references to mistresses, whose identities he strove to keep secret. Employing previously unavailable letters and diaries, Arthur Jacobs here presents a biography of Sullivan that sheds new light
on the persona and art of this leading figure of Victorian music.

Genres: Biography, Music

486 pages, Paperback

First published December 31, 1984

Reviews

[Roderick Ellem · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting biography of the composer of the Savoy operettas and much more.

[Riq Hoelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author is listed as Head of Music at Huddersfield Polytechnic as well as author of several other music books. This book presents perhaps the most detail on the making of The Mikado. Even included are many little fascinating tidbits such as photos of Sullivan's diary entries and Jessie Bond's manipulation of the wardrobe-mistress to see that the obi of her costume was twice as big as that of the other "little maids". Bond is quoted as saying
I made the most of my big, big bow, turning my back to the audience whenever I got a chance and waggling it. The gallery was delighted, but I nearly got the sack for that prank. However, I did get noticed, which was what I wanted.

This book also covers the subject of Sullivan's love affairs in far more detail.