“MUSE of FIRE” Charles Bruck at the Monteux School in Maine

Dear Olist Colleagues,

I am very happy to announce that my one-man play, “MUSE of FIRE—Charles Bruck at the Monteux School in Maine,” about the man many considered America’s greatest (and most notorious) teacher of conducting, has been published by DelGatto Press.

The volume includes the complete play script, with reviews, history and backstory, plus an extensive appreciation by the renowned international musician, pianist and conductor, Lorin Hollander.

“When an old European maestro will stop at nothing to mold an apprentice in the flames of his passion for music, the young man discovers that great conductors are not born—they must be forged…in fire.”

CHORALNET members save $5 by using code CNETMUSE5 at the ArtsForLess store on eBay: https://www.ebay.com/itm/236194791406

For those of you who may not be familiar with him, Charles Bruck was a maestro from “the old school,” tyrannical in his fury, and a wonderful antagonist for a play. He intimidated students, insulted them, screamed at them, even hit them, going to any lengths to forge them in the crucible of his passion for the art. Even as his rages became legendary, so too his acerbic wit and cutting humor, which could make his charges roar with laughter, even as they cringed in fear. Also legendary was his uncompromising belief in the power and importance of great music to touch the soul. Undeniably one of the 20th century’s most successful conducting mentors, Charles Bruck was also one of the most imitated and revered. MUSE of FIRE is the play that brings to the stage the raw emotion of a brilliant musician—an uncompromising teacher prepared to do whatever it takes to make music truly live in the hearts of his students.

In his extensive appreciation of the play, by one of the world’s greatest musicians, philosophers and educators, Lorin Hollander gives special emphasis to attempting to understand the complex character of “The Sorcerer,” whose behavior appears at first to be both demeaning and abusive. The insights he uncovers are relevant to anyone who experienced the Monteux School under Charles Bruck (or wishes they had), to anyone who has seen or read the play, or who desires to bring it to future audiences.

“…unique depth and humor…tremendous verve…and palpable passion…”—Chicago Sun Times

“…a searing and unforgettable portrait of the man who shaped a generation of conductors who hear the music with their hearts…”
—Bangor Daily News

“FOUR STARS: Katz sticks it to his mentor.” —Time Out (Chicago)

“…great stories, well told.” —Bar Harbor Times

Please visit the DelGatto Press website for more information.

Thank you so much,
David

David Katz, founder and chief judge
The American Prize National Nonprofit Competitions in the Performing Arts