An ode to Beethoven's revolutionary masterpiece, his Third Symphony In 1805, the world of music was startled by an avant-garde and explosive new work. Intellectually and emotionally, Beethoven's Third Symphony, the "Eroica," rudely broke the mold of the Viennese Classical symphony and revealed a powerful new expressiveness, both personal and societal. Even the whiff of actual political revolution was woven into the work-it was originally inscribed to Napoleon Bonaparte, a dangerous hero for a composer dependent on conservative royal patronage. With the first two stunning chords of the "Eroica," classical music was transformed. In Beethoven's Eroica, James Hamilton-Paterson reconstructs this great moment in Western culture, the shock of the music and the symphony's long afterlife.

This Companion provides orientation for those embarking on the study of Beethoven's much-discussed Eroica Symphony, as well as providing fresh insights that will appeal to scholars, performers and listeners more generally. The book addresses the symphony in three thematic sections, on genesis, analysis and reception history, and covers key topics including political context, dedication, sources of the Symphony's inspiration, 'heroism' and the idea of a 'watershed' work. Critical studies of writings and analyses from Beethoven's day to ours are included, as well as a range of other relevant responses to the work, including compositions, recordings, images and film. The Companion draws on previous literature but also illuminates the work from new angles, based on new evidence and a range of approaches by twelve leading scholars in Beethoven research.

An inspiring and definitive guide to the top rides that every adventurous cyclist should experience in their lifetimes The smell of lavender at a roadside picnic, waiting for the Tour de France to race past. The payoff of a Pacific Ocean view from the 10,000-foot summit of Hawaii’s Haleakala volcanic crater after five hours of uphill riding. A fresh Fat Tire Ale hitting your lips at the New Belgium brewery in Fort Collins, Colorado. These, and a wide-ranging variety of other sensory and emotional experiences, all rooted to a specific location or event, comprise this beautifully illustrated compilation of travelogues that will spark ideas for new adventures. In The Cyclist’s Bucket List, avid cyclist and journalist Ian Dille compiles and showcases the world’s most memorable cycling journeys. Through extensive research and interviews with expert sources, vivid storytelling, and stunning photography, he catalogs both iconic and little-known experiences that instill cyclists with a deep passion for the sport. Exploring locations ranging from Italy and Croatia to Nova Scotia and Texas, this indispensable guide will be a lifelong companion for anyone who loves exploring exciting destinations on two wheels.

Galaxis is a work of hard science fiction in dramatic form. This work is overflowing with science, technology, cosmic adventures, Christian-Catholic spirituality, life, love, and the mercy of God.

The Eroica Symphony is perhaps Beethoven's most provocative work. Its unprecedented design and its powerful emotional impact forever redefined the potential of musical expression. The work was conceived as a homage to Napoleon Bonaparte, but understood for over a century as a passionate rejection of the tyranny he came to represent. This book traces the compositional process and puts the Eroica in precise historical and aesthetic perspective: the political situations that brought about both the dedication to Napoleon and its withdrawal show that Beethoven followed diplomatic developments astutely. Early interpretations by Beethoven's contemporaries show that they understood the work's import clearly. This study focuses on Beethoven's unique ability to imbue traditional symphonic forms with the idealism of his philosophical mentor, Friedrich Schiller.