Violin Dreams by Arnold Steinhardt Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of Violin Dreams
Book Review: A lifelong dream
Summary: 5 Stars
Violinist Arnold Steinhardt has produced a literary work that has the same richness and logic as a piece of classical music. Perhaps not strictly AABA, the work is organized nonetheless into a wonderful series of motifs, as the author follows - and recounts - the major dreams of his professional life. From early childhood to established career, the book follows Steinhardt's love affair with both music and the instrument that makes it possible. Reading it will be time very well spent.Book Review: A superb book
Summary: 5 Stars
Easily one of the best books I have read in recent years. Many memoirs drown the reader in an avalanche of mundane details. Violin Dreams is short and sweet. Steinhardt hardly even mentions his family. But his passion for music in general and the violin in particular is palpable. I only wish there were more books like this.Book Review: Beautifully written memoir
Summary: 5 Stars
If you love the violin or violin music, you will cherish Violin Dreams. Arnold Steinhardt is as engaging an author as he is a great chamber musician. His memories of early violin experiences are a beautiful and inspiring musical tapestry.Book Review: Lovely book
Summary: 4 Stars
This is a lovely book. Quiet. Respectful of tradition. Informative. The book is full of love for the violin and for the hard but fruitful life that mastering it has afforded the author. I note the five stars given by all the other reviewers, and while I share their affection for Violin Dreams, I withhold that last star because the book has only modest aspirations and consequently it is a shame to attempt to make too much of it. But I am really glad that I discovered it and that it sent me back to listening to Bach's compositions for solo violin.
Book Review: Real insight into the life of a virtuoso
Summary: 5 Stars
Not only is Steinhardt an outstanding violinist, he can also write. It's rare to find an artist who is so articulate about his art and the inner life connected with it. This memoir traces his development as a musician from early childhood throiugh his outstanding career as a soloist and first violin of the Guarneri Quartet.
His book is rich in anecdote as well as an analytic approach to the challenges of the music he plays, including Bach's Chaconne. He has had a shifting relationship with this piece for the whole of his professional life. A CD testifying to his view of the piece over the course of years is included.
Strongly recommended for anyone who is interested in the relationship between artist and instrument.
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