R. Murray Schafer: A Creative Life is the authoritative exploration of the life and work of this preeminent Canadian composer, artist, educator, and activist. Working closely with the composer and his family, L. Brett Scott has created the most up-to-date and accurate exploration of Schafer. Scott draws on many public and private sources, including the composer's own journals and correspondence, which have not been previously available to researchers. Scott discusses Schafer's extensive writings, including his research writings on Ezra Pound and E. T. A. Hoffmann, and his multiple works of fiction. The volume also includes a detailed summary of Schafer's work in the field of acoustic ecology and recognition of his role as founder of the World Soundscape Project as well as an overview of his writings on creative music education. With complete discussions of his theater works, choral compositions, compositions for voice, chamber pieces, orchestral compositions, and early and transitional works and a chronological list of compositions and select discography, this volume presents the most comprehensive study of Schafer and his enduring legacy.
Brett Scott is associate professor of ensembles and conducting at the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music. Prior to his appointment at the University of Cincinnati, he was director of choral activities at the University of Rochester and taught at the Eastman School of Music. Scott is an expert on contemporary music and Canadian music. He has presented at national and international conferences, and has had articles published in several scholarly choral journals. He has served as editor of Chorus America's Research Memorandum Series and associate editor of NCCO's The Choral Scholar.
Brett Scott's book is a masterful examination of the life and creative output of one of Canada's leading composers, educators, and activists. By weaving together information from R. Murray Schafer's journals and writings, interviews with the composer and his family, Scott paints a fascinating and honest portrait of this brilliant and complex human being whose artistic gifts continue to astound. This will be the essential resource for scholars seeking information about R. Murray Schafer.--Hilary Apfelstadt, professor emerita of Choral Studies, The University of Toronto This extensive book about R. Murray Schafer - often referred to as Canada's most famous composer - is a significant because of its comprehensive accounts of his life, his innovative and wide-ranging artistic, scholarly and literary work, and his social conscience--Barry Traux, professor emeritus, Simon Fraser University
