Author
Gustav Kobbé
1857-1918
Gustav Kobbé (1857-1918) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Gustav Kobbé
The Complete Opera Book The Stories of the Operas, together with 400 of the Leading Airs and Motives in Musical Notation
"The Complete Opera Book" by Gustav Kobbé is a guide to operas first published posthumously in 1919. This comprehensive reference presents opera stories alongside musical notation of leading airs and motives. Covering works from Gluck to early twentieth-century composers, the book organizes operas by national schools and historical periods. Originally left unfinished at Kobbé's death, it was completed by editor Katharine Wright and expanded through numerous editions, becoming the definitive encyclopedic account of opera for generations of music lovers and record collectors.
How to Appreciate Music
"How to Appreciate Music" by Gustav Kobbé is an insightful guide to understanding and appreciating music, likely written in the early 20th century. The book aims to enlighten music lovers—those who attend concerts and recitals but may not have formal training—by providing them with the knowledge necessary to enhance their enjoyment of music. Kobbé discusses the evolution of various musical forms and figures, including significant composers from both classical and modern eras, which helps readers develop a deeper understanding of musical expression. The opening portion of the work introduces the nature and significance of the pianoforte, detailing its prominent role in both personal and public musical experiences. Kobbé emphasizes that while many people may not play or sing, their ability to appreciate music can be profound. He elaborates on the history and evolution of the pianoforte, illustrating its capabilities and unique characteristics that distinguish it from other instruments. Additionally, Kobbé plans to explore how the study of the pianoforte can serve as a gateway to understanding the broader musical landscape, signifying its foundational place in music history.
The Mentor: The Wife in Art, Vol. 1, Num. 28, Serial No. 28
"The Mentor: The Wife in Art, Vol. 1, Num. 28, Serial No. 28" by Gustav Kobbé is an artistic exploration written in the early 20th century. This publication serves as an insightful commentary on the profound influence that wives had on celebrated male artists during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. It is not merely a historical account but rather an appreciation of the interplay between life, love, and art, emphasizing how these artists were shaped by the relationships they maintained with their spouses. The book covers various renowned painters such as Andrea del Sarto, Fra Filippo Lippi, Rubens, Rembrandt, Anthony Van Dyck, and Dante Gabriel Rossetti, with each section dedicated to their wives and the unique influences these women had on their artistic endeavors. For instance, Lucrezia Fedi’s beauty inspired Andrea del Sarto's numerous works, even as her extravagance hampered his career. Similarly, Lucrezia Buti became both the muse and the wife of Fra Filippo Lippi, enhancing his paintings with her beauty. The text goes on to examine the relationships of other artists with their wives, illustrating a recurring theme of love's duality in fostering creative genius. Through vivid descriptions and historical anecdotes, Kobbé illustrates the essential yet often overlooked role women played in the art world, affirming that behind many great artists stood equally compelling figures who shaped their legacies.
The Pianolist: A Guide for Pianola Players
"The Pianolist: A Guide for Pianola Players" by Gustav Kobbé is a guidebook aimed at musicians using the Pianola, a mechanical piano player, written in the early 20th century. The work explores the role of the Pianola in democratizing music performance, allowing individuals without technical training to enjoy and interpret music on the piano. The author addresses a wide audience, from musical novices to enthusiasts, emphasizing that anyone can participate in music-making through this innovative instrument. At the start of the guide, Kobbé discusses the title and purpose of the book, explaining how the term "Pianola" was chosen to represent a widely recognized device that combines mechanical functionality with artistic expression. He shares personal anecdotes, such as how his daughter was able to reproduce complex pieces of music without prior lessons through the Pianola, highlighting its ability to nurture musical appreciation and talent among the general public. He positions the instrument as a bridge to deeper musical understanding, encouraging players to engage interpretively rather than mechanically. Overall, the beginning conveys a sense of optimism about the future of music accessibility and the personal joy of music-making.
The Loves of Great Composers
"The Loves of Great Composers" by Gustav Kobbé is a biographical account written in the early 20th century that explores the romantic relationships of some of the most beloved composers in history. The text delves into the intricate personal lives of these musical giants, emphasizing how their loves influenced and shaped their artistic genius. Featured figures include Mozart, Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Chopin, Schumann, Liszt, and Wagner, each accompanied by a portrayal of their significant others who played a role in their life and work. At the start of the book, Kobbé introduces the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, highlighting his deep love for his wife, Constance, through the correspondence exchanged between them. The narrative reflects on Mozart's struggles with fame and financial pressures, juxtaposed against the comfort he found in Constance's unwavering support. Kobbé captures the essence of their relationship, illustrating how her presence served as a source of solace during difficult times, ultimately leading to a poignant reflection on the intersections of love and creativity. Through the lens of early biographical anecdotes, the opening sets the stage for an exploration of love's profound impact on artistic expression across multiple composers.