Interpretation: How to Shape a Melodic Line

This is really a handbook on Interpretation in which Peter-Lucas Graf uses analysis, examples and simple exercises to illustrate his theories. All basic musical elements are covered, including melody, phrasing, rhythm, dynamics, and tempo, and the text is peppered with 'Rules' and 'Tips'. In the chapter on tempo for example:

• Rule - Concentrate first and foremost on the character of the music. Heed all the composer's relative tempo markings exactly. On the other hand, don't follow absolute indications (metronome marks) slavishly - treat them more as 'approximate values'.
• Tip - Look for the fastest and slowest parts of the piece. the former yields information on the quickest possible tempo and the latter on the slowest possible tempo. The 'correct' tempo will lie somewhere in between these extremes: both parts must make musical sense when played at the chosen tempo.

You might be forgiven for thinking that this is simply good common sense, but it is somehow comforting to see it all written down. This is especially so when the book has been thoroughly researched and organised, and has such convincing musical illustrations. Yes it is pricey but there is no doubting the quality of the content.