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Book of Longing
(2007)
Music by Philip Glass
Poems and Artwork by Leonard Cohen
CAST:
cello, bass, violin, keyboard, percussion, oboe, english horn, 4 singers,
actor - 85 minutes
SYNOPSIS:
Composed by Philip Glass and based on the poetry of Leonard Cohen, Book of
Longing is a song cycle composed for ensemble, singers, spoken word and
imagery. The culmination of years of mutual admiration between two of the
most celebrated musical artists of their generation, the piece features
new music by Philip Glass that is inspired by Cohen’s collection
of poems and his artwork of the same name.
Composer’s Note:
Leonard and I first began talking about a poetry and music collaboration
more than six years ago. We met at that time in Los Angeles, and he had
with him a manuscript that became the basis of the collection of poetry
now published as the Book of Longing. In the course of an afternoon that
stretched into the evening, he read virtually the whole book to me. I found
the work intensely beautiful, personal, and inspiring. On the spot, I proposed
an evening-length work of poetry, music, and image based on this work.
Leonard liked my idea, and we agreed to begin. Now, six years later, our
stars are in alignment, the book is published, and I have composed the
music.
For me, this work is both a departure from past work and a fulfillment of
an artistic dream.
-Philip Glass
PUBLISHER:
Dunvagen Music Publishers