Harper aims to provide readers with a deeper, more accurate understanding of Falla’s creative process by drawing from a complete array of rare, authentic sources including Falla’s own personal library, valuable sketch material, and the more than 20,000 pieces of correspondence maintained in Granada, Spain by the Manuel de Falla Archive.
The book is arranged in three sections. The first part of the book, organized according to Falla’s geographical stays, attempts to clarify certain aspects of Falla’s life that have to date been ambiguous or unknown. The second section engages various prominent aspects of Falla’s character, such as his relationship with his European contemporaries. In this second section, significant collaborations with prestigious Falla specialists - Louis Jambou, Michael Christofordis, and Chris Collins - have greatly enhanced the dimension of the topics addressed. The book’s final section attempts to introduce readers to the most recent information available. It is generously illustrated with manuscript examples and is organized according to the stylistic classifications of the Manuel de Falla Archive’s Musical Director, which greatly assist in clarifying the development of Falla’s creative process. A chronologically-arranged photo section rounds out this offering that will be of great significance to music students and teachers, as well as those with an interest in Spanish culture.