Are there any books concerning composing and arranging that cover the spiritual and inspirational aspect. I am always interested in the way other writers get there music off of the "launching pad". I not concerned about what harmonies to use or what instruments to combine. I find it so fascinating to know what another goes through in the creative process.
On 10 Apr 2005 at 18:39, John Howell wrote:Wow! For some disagreement with David, read a very interesting book on the subject:
Your question implies that composing and arranging do, in fact, have spiritual . . .
David W. Fenton wrote:
I object to the introduction of the term "spiritual." ...
I wouldn't refer to that as "spiritual," just non-rational, unconscious, and, because of that, somewhat mysterious and inexplicable.
...
But "spiritual", well, I *spit* on that word -- it has nothing to do with that.
_Talks with Great Composers: Candid Conversations with Brahms, Puccini, Strauss, and Others_ by Arthur M. Abell. New York: Carol Publishing Group, Citadel Press, (1955), 1994, 182 pp. ISBN 0-8065-1565-1
The young man Abell held extended interviews and conversations with these composers about the subject of creativity and inspiration. There is much common ground in thiner separate accounts, with nearly all holding divine inspiration in very high esteem.
The other composers include Grieg and Bruch. Bruch, in their day, was regarded as greater than Brahms, btw, but Brahms and Bruch both knew differently.
The extended interview with Brahms and Joachim is the most astounding. Brahms knew exactly his place in history, despite the fact that his friend Joachim had to accept engagements with the written stipulation that he NOT play the Brahms concerto.
A few excerpts from the Brahms portion of the book are at:
http://solomonsmusic.net/brahmrls.htm
under the section labeled "INSPIRATION AND CREATIVITY" including Brahms declaration that "No atheist has ever been or will be a great composer."
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