Music and Musicians. By Robert Schumann. Translated by F. A.
Ritter. (Reeves.)—It is not often that high musical genius is allied with literary talent, as was the case with the anther of this work. Previous to his literary venture, the German musical papers had prin- cipally dealt in a criticism which was a mere discussion of technical subjects, doing little in the way of musical tostheties. The Nene Zeitschrift aimed at something far higher. There was at this time in Germany a band of choioo spirits to the imaginative side of whose nature music strongly appealed, to whom every worthy composition was a poem
of not merely physical, but moral beauty. These gathered round Schumann, to help and encourage him in his crusade against unworthy and immoral art, and to further the cause of true music by articles from the ablest pens in Germany. We have in this volume a selection of papers, which appeared from time to time, written by Schumann him- self. In these essays his nobleness of character, his exuberant fancy, his genial humour, and the wonderful versatility of his genius stand prominent and conspicuous. Although openly and boldly he gave his reverent allegiance to the German classic school, he did not therefore cry down the rising talent of the new. His remarks on the works of Chopin, Schubert, and our own Sir W. Storndale Bennett and John Field are fine passages of thoroughly appreciative criticism, while his papers on the symphony of Hector Berlioz, and "the Huguenots" of Meyerbeer, show how severe and trenchant he could be when opposing Philistinism in music. The thanks of the musical world are duo to Miss Ritter for giving us this selection. The translation is fairly done, although we come across a few awkward passages, and we must protest against the vorb " extravagate." A brief life of the author is prefixed to the work.
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