Sondheim by Gottfried, Martin - 2000

New York: Harry N Abrams Inc. New in New dust jacket. 2000. Hardcover. This volume, originally published in 1993, is an enlarged and updated version. Stephen Sondheim grew up under the wing of one of the great creators of musical theater, Oscar Hammerstein II, but he forged a long and brilliant career away from the shadow of that master. His own inventions as lyricist, composer, and in both roles, broke new ground. Beginning as a lyric writer for Leonard Bernstein (West Side Story) and Jule Styrne (Gypsy) , Sondheim struck out on his own, writing both music and lyrics for many wonderful shows including A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Follies, Into the Woods, and more. The author provides a narrative of Sondheim's life and a cogent analysis of the music and lyrics. This greatly enhanced by generous quotations from the artist himself. Sondheim gave many long interviews over several months that give this book a special, intimate and accurate authority. Coupled with the lively remembrance of the stories and key scenes in all the shows is a host of photographs from public sources and Mr. Sondheim's own personal files. Includes an index. 121 illustrations, 55 in full color. The binding is red cloth. ; 4to - over 9¾ - 12" tall .