These and related resources are available at the Westport Public Library. Please contact our reference department for additional information at (203) 291-4840 or ref@westportlibrary.org.
BOOKS
Gardner, Howard. Art, Mind & Brain. 1982. The author’s study of the human
creative process from the viewpoint of cognitive psychology.
Harvey, Jonathan. Music and Inspiration. 1999. A conceptual approach to a composer’s inspirations.
Hirsch, Edward. The Demon and the Angel: Searching for the Source of Artistic Inspiration. 2002. The author delves into the concept of “duende,” the powerful soul
of creativity and notes its application by various artists.
John-Steiner, Vera. Creative Collaboration. 2000. This socio-cultural study on creativity probes intense collaborative efforts and partnerships by famous artists, choreographers, musicians, scientists, and writers.
McCutchan, Ann. The Muse That Sings: Composers Speak About the Creative Process. 1999. Twenty-five of America’s leading composers are interviewed about their experiences and insights into creating music.
Swados, Elizabeth. Listening Out Loud: Becoming a Composer. 1988. The essence and core of sound for the composer are explored by this award-winning composer, writer, lyricist, and musician.
Tharp, Twyla. The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life: A Practical Guide. 2003. The author’s methodology, organizational skills, and work ethic can be used by everyone to ensure a creative life.
ARTICLES
Clinch, Dermot. “How Hard Does Music Have To Be Before It Becomes Something Else Altogether? (Analysis of the Compositions of U.S. Musical Composer Elliott Carter).” New Statesman (January 30, 1998): p38.
Although Elliott Carter’s music is intellectually challenging and stimulating, it is not too popular among the general public.
Eichler, Jeremy. “Standing the Whole World On Its Ear.” New York Times (January 22, 2006): p2.
Osvaldo Golijov’s compositional inspirations and musical creations are examined.
Page, Tim. “The Music of Ellen Zwilich.” New York Times (July 14, 1985): pSM26.
The first female Pulitzer Prize winner in music describes her craft and creative process.
Pasles, Chris. “Tribute to Brothers in Battle: Music: Richard Danielpour Uses Interviews with Soldiers as Inspiration for his American Requiem.” Los Angeles Times (Nov 13, 2001.): pF2.
Richard Danielpour credited his conversations and meetings with Korean and Vietnam war veterans as inspiration for his piece An American Requiem.
Rockwell, John. “Music, Every Which Way: Composer William Bolcom Gains Popularity Mixing and Matching Classical, Pop and Folk.” New York Times (August 16, 1987): pSM32.
William Bolcom describes how his compositions are an amalgam of various types of music.
Smith, Steve. “A Cellist Interprets the Sentiments of an Italian Maverick.” New York Times (July 24, 2006): pE2.
A composer is often inspired by an unusual, superlative performer.
Teachout, Terry. “The New Tonalists. (Music)” Commentary (December 1997): p53.
The minimalist movement in classical music is being superseded by a new tonalism.
WEBSITES
American Mavericks -
This website focuses on unusual, classical composers featuring their music and writings.
American Music Center -
The purpose of this national service and information center is to foster and promote the production, publication, and performance of new American music.
Living Composers Project –
A non-profit database provides biographies, bibliographies, discographies, and links to personal websites of contemporary classical composers throughout the world.
New Music Jukebox -
This online library and listening room documents the growth and evolution of new music by American composers.
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