Chapters XXXVI through XXXVIII Summary and Analysis

Chapters XXXVI through XXXVIII describes the resurgence of Bach and other masters' influence on contemporary great pianists.

Chapter XXXVI Bach a la Mode comments on a trend that was unfashionable to play Bach on piano since Landowska's resurgent harpsichord playing. Ironically she used a Pleyel-made instrument similar to a concert grand piano, played in a romantic style but had audiences convinced she played like Bach. The Canadian, Glenn Gould brought a new approach to playing Bach in 1955. His recorded "Goldberg Variations" combined personality, ideas, bouncing rhythm and fast tempos. Gould became a legend by revolting against authority to become "the most stimulating musician of his time." Gould was born in 1932, began playing at three and was taught by his mother until he entered Toronto's Royal Conservatory. He was a concert pianist for nine years playing...