Table of Contents

Contents: Beethoven and the new categories of symphonic music – Aspects of architectonics – Content and form – Musical themes and the «poetic conception» – Universality of the symphony: genres and characteristics – The symbol in music – Satanism and the Crucifix – Dall’ Inferno al Paradiso – Rhythmic leitmotivs – Characteristic Chord – Symbolic Sounds.

About the Author

Constantin Floros is professor emeritus of musicology at the University of Hamburg. He has published several volumes about Gustav Mahler. In recognition of his many years of researching, the International Mahler Society awarded him the Mahler Medal in gold in March of 2010.
Neil K. Moran is the author of numerous studies on European cultural history. He studied in Boston and in Hamburg. His publications include many books about the medieval music and about Rudyard Kipling. He has translated several books by Constantin Floros.

Reviews

«The most important study of Mahler for nearly two decades» (Music & Letters)
«Floros can offer interpretations that would otherwise be impossible. Without the interpretation of symbols, no real progress in musicology is possible.» (Musical Borrowing)