Introduction
Gardner Read was the composer of more than 150 works; a scholar and author who has produced numerous articles and ten books, some of which are considered classics in their field; professor emeritus of composition who has taught at a half dozen major universities and influenced the lives of countless young composers; a conductor who has led many of the major symphony orchestras in performances of his own works; and an international lecturer on contemporary American music.
In 1978, musicologist Nicolas Slonimsky wrote:
“In American music, the name of Gardner Read is synonymous with the best traditions of modern classicism and inspired romanticism. His music possesses an aura of artistic dignity and the power of direct communication to the listener.
To the musical analyst, it present a technical interest as well, for in his use of the multicolored palette of modern instrumentation, Gardner Read offers fascinating examples of organized sonorities. The substance of his compositions is infinitely varied; he is a true Renaissance man, working in many different genres without prejudice and achieving his objectives with impeccable taste. His musical resources range from simple triadic concepts to the most intricate edifices of sound and techniques; he succeeds in expressing his musical ideas in symphonic forms of impressive magnitude as well as in pictorial sketches of tonal landscapes limned in fine impressionistic colors.
Gardner Read is also a scholar of remarkable originality, directing his intellectual curiosity towards unexplored regions in the science of music; his books dealing with orchestral devices and problems of modern musical notation are models of illuminating research.”
Contact: creadeditor@gmail.com
