Buy the book here
24 pages (in the original German), 9000 words and over 80 original illustrations and musical examples.
With an introduction by Sally Basker and a chapter by me reflecting on Pfundt's influence and legacy.
sample section;
Who was Pfundt?
Hector Berlioz said that Pfundt was one of only three people in Europe worthy of the title “timpanist”
Richard Wagner – “for every instrument there seems to be from time to time a most singular talent, and on the timpani that is in the fullest sense Musicus Pfundt in Leipzig. He handles his instrument beautifully – so important for an orchestra – his highly unique achievements caught our eye repeatedly….”
Robert Schumann – (on bestowing a wreath of honour upon the 40 or 50 members of the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchester.) “I would like to award one leaf in particular to the orchestra’s timpanist, Herr Pfundt, who is always alert and ready, like thunder and lightning: he plays splendidly”.
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With many thanks to the photographers and film makers who have allowed me to use their work; Stephen Tasker, Chris Christodolou (RCM), Tommy Pearson, Monika Rittershaus (Berliner Philharmoniker), Will Schofield, Glyn Matthews, Angus Bremner (SCO) and Zen Grisdale.