The Pedagogical Writings of Marguerite Long

"The Pedagogical Writings of Marguerite Long presents English translations of the two contributions of Marguerite Long to the literature of piano pedagogy. Long, the most important French woman pianist of the twentieth century, left her stamp on a whole epoch of musical life in Paris. Translations of her pedagogical works, Le Piano and La Petite Mâethode de Piano, provide a window to the old French school of pianism as modernized by Long. Le Piano is a remarkable text offering piano playing technique and pragmatic and philosophical musings and observations about life, musicians, careers, and more. La Petite Mâethode de Piano is a personal manifesto about how to initiate kids to music. Both works are treasures revealing Long's deep commitment to teaching, especially as an essential part of a child's life, and they are stunningly relevant today. In addition to the translations, John Ellis analyzes each work and places them into historical context. He places special emphasis on Long's illustrious international career, her teaching, her rivalry with Alfred Cortot, and the impact of sexism on her. This book addresses the eclipse of Long's reputation by that of Cortot and fills a gap in knowledge where greater study and understanding of Long's place in our pedagogical heritage should be"--