Music for Life: 100 Classical Works to Carry You Through

by Fiona Maddocks

"Fiona Maddocks's descriptions are dangerously moreish...a timely reminder of the importance of music." -- BBC Music

How does music reflect the key moments in our lives? How do we choose the works that inspire, delight, comfort, or console? Fiona Maddocks selects 100 classical works from across nine centuries, arguing passionately, persuasively and at times obstinately for their inclusion, putting each work in its cultural and musical context, discussing omissions, suggesting alternatives and always putting the music first.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction, Reference

224 pages, Hardcover

Published December 4, 2017

Reviews

[Hilary · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got this from the library, I was disappointed when I saw the size, I was expecting a big coffee table type book but this was paperback size. Borrowing this was not ideal, it’s the sort of book I’d want to dip in and out of. The hundred pieces of music have been chosen to be appropriate for different stages or emotions in a persons life, this is a really nice idea. I enjoyed the facts, quotes and reflections on each piece. There were images too, I would have found this more enjoyable with the time to listen to the piece at an appropriate moment then read and reflect rather than ploughing through the book as it’s due back soon. It’s a book I would consider buying if it wasn’t for the fact I really dislike the small format and this looks like it’s been done on a budget. The paper is yellow with a newspaper feel and it is so thin the other side shows through you can even see the next page along. A pity because the content is interesting but the poor execution spoils the reading experience.

[David Ellcock · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable trip through an array of classical pieces - some marvellous, some dreadful, none uninteresting. Made all the more enjoyable by sharing the trip with two good friends and sharing notes on a daily basis.

[GONZA · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book that has a soundtrack for almost every moment in life. With the help of Spotify I could also listen to things I didn't know before, so a complete success as far as I'm concerned.

Mi é piaciuto davvero tanto questo libro che fornisce una colonna sonora per quasi ogni momento saliente della vita. Con l'aiuto di Spotiy inoltre, ho potuto anche ascoltare brani che non conoscevo, quindi un successo su tutta la linea per quanto mi riguarda.

THANKS TO NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!

[Nicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Net Galley and Faber & Faber for the free advanced copy.

This is a fantastic little book and one that should be on all music lovers Christmas lists this year.
I discovered so many new pieces of music that I want to listen to again and also new composers.
I had fun looking for tracks on Spotify and will continue to add to my new play list to go with this book.
It's definitely a book to dip into over and over again and I recommend it for people who enjoy classical music and are in need for some fresh inspiration.

[Smh624 · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a guide to listening to 100 classical works, many of which are very long and challenging to listen to. This is a book for a serious classical music, opera, and religious music fan willing to devote a lot of time to listening. The author clearly loves the music and seeks to share her love with the reader/listener. Although I enjoyed some of the music, I found a surprising amount of it tedious and struggled with the overall melancholy and dark tone. I much preferred the Year of Wonder books.

[Mackenzie Stroud · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading through the book while listening to the suggested works. I found it inspiring and have added many songs to my playlist for writhing time. I loved how she didn’t utilize traditional ways of thinking about life. Instead using stages of life such as journeys,exiles and time passing.

[Lorelei · Rating 2 out of 5]

i am just not a fan of compendia. sure the author has some valid points about the music but some of the comments regarding the pieces seem contrived and non-relatable.

[Eileen Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating treatise on what makes us respond to many different types of music.
Whether you are a modern music lover or into the classics, this tells you all you need to know about what makes you tick when listening.
Recommended.
I was given a digital copy of this book by the publisher Faber and Faber via Netgalley in return for an honest unbiased review.