Brahms in the Meiningen Tradition: his symphonies and Haydn variations according to the markings of Fritz Steinbach, edited by Walter Blume : a complete translation with background and commentary

Abstract

This dissertation makes available the first complete English translation of Brahms in der Meiningen Tradition, by Walter Blume (1883--1933), an important source document relating to the performance of the four symphonies and Haydn Variations of Johannes Brahms (1833--1897). This book was based on the markings Blume found in the scores of his teacher and friend Fritz Steinbach (1855--1916), conductor of the orchestra at the Court of Sachsen-Meiningen in central Germany from 1886 to 1902. Steinbach was a musician profoundly admired by Brahms and considered by his contemporaries to be one of the composer's greatest interpreters and champions. Blume's book is all that remains to testify to Steinbach's art, aside from a small number of letters, criticisms, reminiscences and brief references. The material provided by Walter Blume represents an overall approach to music-making that was favored by Brahms and had the composer's sanction. For this reason, Brahms in der Meiningen Tradition ranks among the most significant works of its kind. It will undoubtedly be of great interest to conductors, performers, scholars and enthusiasts, providing a rare opportunity to consider the insights and practices of a significant Brahms interpreter and contemporary.