Gustav Mahler: Memories and Letters

Gustav Mahler, Memories and Letters is his wife, Alma's account of her life with the brilliant composer and conductor. Although many historians stress occasional errors and distortions on Alma's part, can many of us really overcome the foibles of seeing things through our own eyes? Yes, sometimes she does not remember correctly which symphony he was conducting on a particular day. But this book does provide readers with insights into what daily life was like with this musical genius. His letters demonstrate both his love for music, and his goal of doing justice to each composer's intentions, AND his abiding love for his wife and daughters. Other books can provide you with more complete information on his symphonies--when and where they were performed, and what was thought about them at the time. This book is for those who want to learn more about the man--from the woman he both neglected and yet adored. Even with its occasional faults, Alma's description of their life together is invaluable to all of us who love and wish to better understand the "one-of-a-kind" Gustav Mahler.