An Examination of the Neo-Classical Wind Works of Igor Stravinsky: The Octet for Winds and Concerto for Piano and Winds (Studies in the History & Interpretation of Music, 102)

American conductor Lubaroff begins by reviewing the history of what is now frequently called chamber winds or wind ensembles, and places the two works by Russian-born composer Stravinsky (1882-1971) within that centuries-old tradition. Then he examines Stravinsky's formative years and his transitional years from La Sacre to the Octet. Focusing on the octet itself, he looks at its history, background, inspiration, instrumentation, and form and analysis. Next he narrates the time from the octet to the concerto, examines its background, and provides a comparative and descriptive analysis. To conclude, he explores the position of the two pieces in modern day wind performance programs. The text is double spaced. Annotation 2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)