Experiencing Berlioz: A Listeners Companion is an in-depth entre into the sound world of Hector Berlioz, recognized today as one of the most profoundly original and engaging composers in 19th-century Europe.

Melinda ONeal offers the non-specialist a pathway into the underlying allure of Berlioz’s music. His views on rehearsing and conducting, bumpy career ride and failures, the journey of a work through revisions and editions, and historical performance practices provide a backdrop to discussions of his most significant works.

As ONeal addresses the motivation and conception, sonic atmosphere, and compositional strategies of key works, she provides a new multifaceted experience not only to music historians and performers but also to any amateur music lover who has ever been entranced by Berliozs undeniable musical veracity. As the listener interacts with Berlioz’s music, the ear’s curiosity and imagination will take flight.