COVER text by
Ton Hartsuiker,
former director of the Amsterdam Conservatory

Ten composers portraits in word and image brings together ten composers from whom five are Dutch. Their lives and works are mapped in a very accessible way. The sum of what they are related to and in which they differ from each other gives a fascinating picture of 20th century music. 

Ten short biographies are accompanied by reproductions of painted portraits. The portraits of the seven composers I have known personally impress me with their psychological accuracy.

This book is supported by the CD Tribute 2000 with twelve piano works by the composers involved, played by René Eckhardt and gives it a special dimension.

RECEPTION

"Beautiful portraits which Saar Roelofs created with profound understanding and convincing brushstrokes" (public press:   
De Gelderlander, January 31 2000)

“Remarkable portraits. Clearly  written biographies which are excellent introductions of the work of the composers" (professional journal: Mens & Melodie, March 2001)

"Psychologically striking portraits" (public press: Het Parool, January 24, 200l). 

Quotations from the chapter about Messiaen are included in the book Saint François d'Assise (the Dutch Opera, 2008).  

“Roelofs uses an accessible writing style. In a nutshell she gives an excellent impression of the life of ten composers. Meanwhile she also describes the connections and similarities between the composers. The painted portraits show a convincing likeness with the represented persons.
Together the book and the CD form a mini manual of post World War II music, for beginning as well as advanced music lovers.” (professional journals: De Muze van het Museumplein, Summer issue 2001; Oorsprong, November 2001)

 “A beautiful book. Very characteristic portraits. Life and work of the composers are written in an accessible way.” (Dutch radio station for classical music: Radio 4, December 2000)

“Twenty striking portraits. Clearly written biographies.” (Foundation Women and Music, News Letter, April 2001)

“Roelofs describes life and work of the ten composers in a pleasant style. Because of the painted portraits the composers become more alive.” (Public press: Dagblad van Almere, March 22 2001)