Product Description

Janos Starker is universally acknowledged as one of the world's great musicians. Known for a flawless technique paired with expressive playing and interpretation, the Hungarian-born cellist is arguably also the premier teacher of his instrument in our time. String players flock to his masterclasses from all over the world, and cellists compete vigorously to study under him at the Indiana University School of Music. More than the consummate musician, however, Starker is also a raconteur and writer, occasionally quirky and droll, always witty and with a pointed opinion to share. "The World of Music According to Starker" is a colourful autobiography spanning the author's fascinating life. From his early musical education during World War II in Hungary, to his world tours, educational philosophy, and recording and pedagogical legacy, Starker takes the reader on a riveting, entertaining, and informative journey. Included in the book are several of Starker's short stories and commentaries on world events, academia, and - of course - music that have appeared in newspapers, music periodicals, and trade magazines. Also includes a bonus CD recording of Starker's last public recital, which is unavailable commercially and includes his only recording of the Strauss Sonata in F, Opus 6.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #559080 in Books
• Published on: 2004-10
• Original language: English
• Dimensions: 1.59 pounds
• Binding: Hardcover
• 340 pages

From Booklist
Master cellist Starker was born in Budapest in 1924. His mother supported his early musical training, and in 1938 he made his debut with orchestra. His Jewish heritage, however, marked him as an alien. When the Russians came to Hungary, he went to Romania and Austria to play, returning to be principal cellist of the Budapest Philharmonic. In 1948, he came to the U.S. as the Dallas Symphony's principal cellist. He subsequently spent four years with the Metropolitan Opera and followed its musical director, Fritz Reiner, to Chicago. Five years after that, he joined the Indiana University faculty, EMI began to record him, and he began a worldwide solo career in earnest. Between narrative sections, Starker comments on music, world cultures, and the future; in sidebars he discusses the cellos he owns, traveling in Spain, and Bobby Knight's motivational capabilities. Starker presents his life and comments concisely in what must be reckoned the self-portrait of a great musician and a lover of his fellow people whose life constitutes an example worthy of emulation. Alan Hirsch
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Review
"Few cello players currently before the public have enjoyed the kind of international success in all conceivable musical career roles as Janos Starker. In his lifetime, Starker has gained renown as teacher, soloist and orchestra player." - Chicago Tribune "Starker...remains one of the wonders of the musical world, an artist who finds innumerable ways to shape and color lines." - Cleveland Plain Dealer "Starker is not just a cellist. He is widely recognized as one of the finest of the last 50 years." - Indianapolis Star"