380 pages | 6 x 9 | Biography/Music
ISBN: 979-898-575-0089
Hardback $39.99
Exclusive First Edition Signed by the Author
James Whipple Miller introduces his book ‘Nadia Boulanger: War Years in America and Her Last Decades.’
Fall 2023
Nadia Boulanger: War Years in America and Her Last Decades
by James Whipple Miller
Publication date: October 19th, 2023
Shipping date: Fall 2023
This is the first biographical study of the great French master teacher’s last half of life. The book includes 227 letters exchanged over four decades between Boulanger and her close friend and disciple Ruth Robbins.
From this unique epistolary record between an extraordinary pedagogue and her student, we gain deep and new insights into Boulanger’s beliefs and feelings, and how they changed as she faced the challenges of aging. Another intimate perspective on Boulanger comes from her favorite post-war student Idil Biret who vividly describes her resistance to Boulanger’s rigidity.
Praise for the Book
“Cause for celebration!”
”
“A labor of love that ably explores the relationship among three women and their shared love of music.”
”
“Through his extensive research and expressive prose, author James Whipple Miller provides an insightful look into the minds of three of the 20th century’s most ardent lovers of music. Nadia Boulanger is perfect for history buffs and musicologists alike — or anyone with an appreciation and respect for beauty.”
“This wonderful collection of letters and well-researched commentary will fascinate musicians, music lovers, or any reader interested in the life and legacy of a 20th-century musical titan!”
”
“The work of art… is an image of God.”
“With high intellectual standards, you can ask any sacrifice. With lower standards, spiritually or intellectually, you meet selfishness, weakness and despair.”
“And as life goes and the time shortens, it is harder. You may have heard of Dinu Lipatti’s death—a disaster and such a profound, heavy sorrow. As great an artist, as great a soul. One finds it difficult to overcome such a blow!”
“Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life."
— Berthold Auerbach