The Man with the Golden Flute

October 1, 2009
Galway is one of the most recognized names in the music business, with numerous solo albums, a huge television presence, and an imposing touring schedule. In commemoration of his 70th birthday, he has produced this memoir, which should greatly please his legion of fans. Galway, a raconteur par excellence with a lengthy and illustrious career, has many entertaining stories to tell, beginning with his childhood in Belfast, continuing with his successes as an orchestral musician, and culminating with his pathbreaking career as an internationally acclaimed flute soloist. Readers will enjoy the numerous anecdotes of his relationships with the likes of Herbert von Karajan and Mstislav Rostropovich. Although Galway's discussion of his musical likes and dislikes feels somewhat superficial, flute players will be particularly pleased by the chapter on his favorite flute makers and models. The writing throughout is guileless, open, and conversational. VERDICT Galway makes excellent use of his celebrity status to promote classical music as well as such virtues as hard work and perseverancegood messages for all musicians. Recommended for general music readers.Larry Lipkis, Moravian Coll., Bethlehem, PA

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