"Balanchine" by Bernard Taper provides a comprehensive and captivating biography of the legendary choreographer, George Balanchine. Taper takes readers on a journey through Balanchine's life, from his early years in Russia to his influential career in America.
The book offers a deep exploration of Balanchine's personal life and artistic vision, delving into the factors that shaped his unique choreographic style. Taper's extensive research and interviews with those who knew Balanchine add depth and insight, enabling readers to truly understand the man behind the ballets.
One of the highlights of this biography is Taper's ability to place Balanchine's creations within their cultural and historical context. He examines the influences that informed Balanchine's artistic choices and sheds light on his groundbreaking contributions to the world of dance. Taper's analysis of Balanchine's works adds richness to the storytelling and allows readers to appreciate their lasting significance.
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Taper's writing style is engaging and accessible, making this book suitable for both ballet enthusiasts and those less familiar with the art form. He strikes a balance between providing enough detail to satisfy the curiosity of enthusiasts while avoiding overwhelming casual readers. The book is well-organized, allowing readers to navigate through Balanchine's life, his impact on dance, and his contributions to the artistic community.
Overall, "Balanchine" is a must-read for anyone interested in ballet. Taper's meticulous research and engaging storytelling make this biography a captivating and informative exploration of George Balanchine's extraordinary life and groundbreaking work. Whether you are a dedicated ballet fan or simply curious about one of the greatest choreographers of all time, this book offers a comprehensive and enjoyable journey into the world of George Balanchine.
What are readers saying?
"Balanchine" by Bernard Taper has received a range of opinions from readers. The biography delves into the life and career of George Balanchine, the renowned choreographer and co-founder of the New York City Ballet. While some readers found the book insightful and well-researched, providing a comprehensive examination of Balanchine's groundbreaking contributions to dance, others felt it lacked depth and failed to capture the essence of the legendary choreographer.
Many readers praised Taper's extensive research and the detailed information presented in the book. They found it to be a comprehensive account of Balanchine's life, shedding light on his influences, creative process, and impact on ballet. These readers appreciated Taper's ability to capture the essence of Balanchine's innovative choreography and the challenges he faced throughout his career.
However, some readers felt the biography lacked depth and failed to provide a profound understanding of Balanchine as a person. They believed it portrayed a somewhat one-dimensional image of the choreographer, focusing more on his professional achievements than his personal life. Additionally, some readers found the writing style to be dry and overly academic, making it difficult to fully engage with the subject matter.
Another criticism of the book was its lack of critical analysis of Balanchine's work and legacy. Some readers felt that Taper was too reverential towards Balanchine, neglecting to address any potential flaws or controversies surrounding the ballet master. They believed a more balanced examination of Balanchine's contributions would have added depth and nuance to the biography.
Overall, "Balanchine" by Bernard Taper provides a comprehensive overview of George Balanchine's life and career. While it received positive reviews for its extensive research and detailed information, some readers found it lacking in terms of depth, personal insight, and critical analysis. Nevertheless, for those interested in learning about the life and work of one of the most influential figures in ballet history, "Balanchine" may still be worth reading.
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