Symphony of Seduction

April 1, 2018

These short, salacious tales from notable Australian broadcaster Lawrence are based on the amorous exploits of ten classical composers, among them Mozart, Debussy, Chopin, and Brahms. "Great Love Stories" is a bit of a misnomer here, with unfulfilled longing, brief trysts, murderous rage, and infidelity being far more likely than "happily ever after." Though Lawrence based location, time lines, people, and their decisions on facts found in primary sources, it is the juicy details that will go a long way toward making the work of these composers more interesting to those who normally associate classical music with boredom. The author's playful embellishments bring the composers to life, outfitting them in recognizably human foibles. Highlights include cuckolded Hector Berlioz in drag, on a murderous rampage around Paris; the lewd jokes and brilliant mind of an adolescent Mozart; the infidelity of Claude Debussy that led to the loss of his reputation; and the unlikely tryst between delicate, consumptive Chopin and lusty author George Sand, dressed to kill in the colors of the Polish flag. VERDICT Readers will be electrified with the variety of naughtiness, treachery, and pillow talk between these covers. Listening to the easily accessible musical works mentioned therein while reading is recommended.--Erin O. Romanyshyn, Saskatoon P.L., Sask.

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