Guide to Chamber Music

by Melvin A. Berger

"Not only worhtwhile but so beautifully written and so informative that it should be in every chamber music lover's library." — Los Angeles Times . Authoritative, beautifully written guide presents 231 of the most frequently performed pieces of chamber music by 55 composers. For each, the author gives a brief biography, followed by discussions of the individual compositions — both their historical and musical contexts and their salient features, including formal organization, content, and any extramusical associations. "No lover of chamber music should be without this Guide." — John Barkham Reviews. Preface. Glossary.

Genres: Music, Reference, Classical Music, Nonfiction

480 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1985

Reviews

[Duckpondwithoutducks · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an authoritative guide to trios, quartets, quintets, et cetera, by composers from the Baroque Era to Contemporary music. The composers are arranged alphabetically, with sections assigned to each composition mentioned. It is really only for die-hard classical music fans, and best read in conjunction with listening to the music!

[Erin Field · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thinking Day Finland 2025

[Lisa (Harmonybites) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I also have and liked Berger's Guide to Choral Masterpieces. I find both books enjoyable and useful. The Guide to Chamber Music is organized alphabetically by composer. Chronologically it ranges from Renaissance composer Giovanni Gabrieli to composers still living at the time of the 1985 publication such as Elliot Carter, Aaron Copland, George Crumb, Jacob Druckman, Leon Kirchner, Leo Kraft, Ezra Laderman, Witold Lutoslawski, Olivier Messian, George Rochberg, Gunther Schuller and Elie Siegmeister. And as that list testifies, Berger doesn't just go with the usual suspects. Many pieces are analyzed in detail. I appreciated the discography at the end, even if it's now dated. A fun book to browse and help expand your musical library.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a graduate student in a chamber music class and later as chamber music program annotator, I relied heavily on this book for decades, aiming always to learn more and never, ever plagiarize. My pb copy is so acid now that it really must go to the recycle bin. I'm grateful it's still in print and also available electronically.

[Kari]

I've finished the first few composers...I think I might have gotten just past Beethoven. I think I hadn't gotten to Copland yet. Somewhere in there. Will have to finish sometime.