Hungarian composer and musician Zoltán Kodály (1882–1967) is best known for his pedagogical system, the Kodály method, which has been influential in the development of music education around the world. For the first time, author Anna Dalos considers Kodály’s career beyond the classroom and provides a comprehensive assessment of his works as a composer. A noted collector of regional and folk music, Kodály adapted these traditional heritage musics into his own compositions, greatly influencing the work of his contemporary, Bela Bartók. Highlighting his major music experiences, Dalos shows how Kodály’s musical works were also inspired by Brahms, Wagner, Debussy, Palestrina, and Bach. Set against the backdrop of various oppressive regimes of twentieth-century Europe, Dalos explores other decisive, extramusical impulses in Kodály’s career such as World War I’s bitter experiences, his reception of classical antiquity, and his interpretation of the male and female roles in his music. Written by the leading Kodály expert, Anna Dalos’s impressive historical and musical knowledge provides a timely and much-needed English-language treatment of the twentieth-century composer. | Zoltan Kodaly’s World of Music by Anna Dalos, Hardcover | Indigo Chapters