Thomas Adès Studies

This wide-ranging and authoritative volume discusses the major works of acclaimed contemporary composer Adès from a variety of critical perspectives.

This benchmark collection of essays contain authoritative accounts of Thomas Adès's major compositions from a variety of analytical, critical, cultural and historical perspectives. It will appeal not only to Adès specialists, but to those with an interest in contemporary music more broadly.Thomas Adès is a dominant force in contemporary music, whose work attracts significant attention and acclaim, and has been performed by many renowned ensembles. This volume – the first to present a range of scholarly essays on every aspect of Adès's music – offers authoritative accounts of Adès's major compositions from a variety of analytical, critical, cultural and historical perspectives. The opening chapters focus on Adès's earlier music, offering close readings of key works. Further essays focus on his engagement with forms and instrumental genres. The final chapters turn to Adès's texted music and highlight how themes introduced in earlier chapters cut across Adès's entire output. Richly illustrated with musical examples and supported by further online material, this book provides a multi-faceted portrait of Adès's work that opens up new ways of thinking about, and engaging with, his music.