Diary of my Songs (Journal de mes mélodies)

From 1918 to 1960, song writing dominated Francis Poulenc's creative life. In "Diary of my Songs" he discusses all his 'mélodies', describing their origins, commenting on performances he has heard, both good and bad, giving singers and pianists guidelines on interpretation and correcting numerous misconception. His Diary has a directness, a nonchalant wit and a self-deprecating irony that are characteristic not only of his writings but also of his music. Above all, the Diary is informed by the wisdom, tenderness and profound human sympathy that lie at the root of his greatness as a composer.

CONTENIDO:

Foreword by Graham Johnson
Preface to the original edition by Henri Sauguet

The Diary in English and French

Notes
List of songs by Francis Poulenc
Bibliography
Illustrations
Discographical appendix by Patrick Saul