Autobiography of Hector Berlioz: Member of the Institute of France, from 1803 to 1869; Comprising His Travels in Italy, Germany, Russia, and England

Hector Berlioz (1803 69) was one of the most original and colourful composers of his generation whose music was in many ways ahead of its time. He was also a respected journalist and critic. Begun in 1848, his celebrated Memoires were completed by 1865 but published posthumously in 1870. They are the best-known of his writings and reflect the man passionate, imaginative, idealistic, opinionated and witty and give a fascinating, first-hand, insight into his life. He shares his uncompromising thoughts on his contemporaries and the musical establishment in France, writes candidly about his love affairs and engagingly on his music and travels. This first English translation from the original French, published in 1884, will appeal to the music lover and the general reader. Volume 2 (1842 65) includes an engaging account, assembled from previously published material and presented as letters to friends, of travels to Germany and Russia."