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“Piano Dreams” - Exploring the Chinese Piano Explosion
The motivations for learning the piano are diverse, ranging from personal enjoyment to cultural appreciation and professional aspirations. While some see it as a way to connect with cultural heritage, others pursue it as a path to fame and fortune. In the movie “Piano Dreams” director Gary Lennon documents the struggles and sacrifices of three wannabe piano stars in modern China. Read more >>

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Topic: Bernhard's The Loser (Read 1564 times)

goose

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Posts: 101

Bernhard's The Loser

on: March 13, 2005, 04:51:56 PM

A few years ago I saw a copy of Thomas Bernhard's novel 'The Loser' in a secondhand bookstore. It intrigued me because it's a work of fiction about three friends studying with Horowitz. And one of the friends is Glenn Gould. For some reason, I didn't buy it and haven't been able to find it since.

I know I can get it on Abebooks or Alibris, or somewhere. But those are quite expensive options when you don't live in the US. Anyone read it? Recommend it?

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Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you're a mile away and you have their shoes. - Jack Handey

xvimbi

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Posts: 2439

Re: Bernhard's The Loser

Reply #1 on: March 13, 2005, 06:13:09 PM

Bernhard's books are mostly very depressing. This one is no exception. The story is of course fictitious. Glenn Gould is in there, because Bernhard was fascinated by this (screwed up) character. It is a good book, but not from a piano-related aspect. It only serves as a vehicle for the story.

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goose

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Posts: 101

Re: Bernhard's The Loser

Reply #2 on: March 13, 2005, 09:17:18 PM

Thanks for the response, Xvimbi. Sounds like it's worth checking out. All the more so if the music is more or less incidental to the plot.

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Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you're a mile away and you have their shoes. - Jack Handey

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