American Piano Trios

The piano trio has been a favorite medium for composers since its inception with Franz Joseph Haydn's compositions for violin, cello, and piano. There have been numerous compositions by many composers since that time, and the piano trio continues to interest composers today. In the United States composers began writing for this combination in the nineteenth century, following European traditions. In the twentieth century, the number of composers and compositions has seen a phenomenal increase. American Piano Trios: A Resource Guide provides information about works for piano trios (violin, cello, and piano) by American composers, including naturalized United States citizens. The information includes a brief biographical sketch of each composer, occasional comments by the composer, and notable information that might lead to a further exploration of his or her work and possible performance. Two appendixes provide contact information about active performers of piano trios and a list of classical music websites.

Provides information about works by American composers, including biographical sketches, occasional comments by the composers, and in particular, information that might lead to a further exploration of his or her work and possible performance.

Library Journal

Pianist and professor Drucker (Baltimore Symphony, Peabody Conservatory) presents a welcome reference for those seeking information on the American piano trio repertoire. He includes alphabetical entries for both well-known and more obscure composers ranging from the early 19th century to currently active artists. He provides both a short biography of the composer and annotations on the pieces, including where they can be acquired, extant recordings, and some descriptive phrases or quotes. Also valuable are appendixes listing performing trios with contact information and a list of classical music web sites. There is some overlap between this book and Ellen Grolman Schlegel's Catalogue of Published Works for String Orchestra and Piano Trio by Twentieth-Century American Women Composers (Colonial, 1993); Drucker's entries are more complete, but Schlegel includes several composers he does not. As a model of exhaustive research, this is highly recommended for all music reference collections.--Barry Zaslow, Miami Univ. Libs., Oxford, OH Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.

Arno P. Drucker served as faculty member and head of the Music Department of Essex Community College in Baltimore, Maryland. He was the Principal Pianist of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra for over twenty years, and has performed as a soloist in the United States and Europe.