1838 - Memoirs of The Musical Drama

By George Hogarth

Published 1838, First Edition
Richard Bentley, Publishers/ London

Two Volumes in One

George Hogarth (1783-1870) was a British author, journalist, and music critic known for his works on music and the performing arts. He was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, and later moved to London, where he became deeply involved in the literary and cultural scene of the time.

Hogarth's most notable work is "Memoirs of The Musical Drama," which was published in 1838. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the history and development of musical theater in England, with a focus on the 18th and early 19th centuries. It explores the evolution of opera, operetta, and other forms of musical drama, as well as the prominent composers, librettists, and performers of the time.

As a music critic and journalist, Hogarth contributed to several publications, including The Morning Chronicle and The Examiner. He wrote extensively on various musical topics, including reviews of performances, discussions on contemporary composers and their works, and analysis of musical trends and styles.

George Hogarth is also known for his personal connections and friendships with influential figures of the era. He married Catherine Dickens, the sister of renowned author Charles Dickens, and had a close association with the Dickens family. Charles Dickens himself considered Hogarth a dear friend and valued his opinions on literature and the arts.

While "Memoirs of The Musical Drama" is considered one of Hogarth's significant works, he also wrote other books and articles on music and the performing arts. His contributions as a music critic and his involvement in the cultural milieu of 19th-century London make him a notable figure in the field of music journalism and the study of musical theater history.

Three quarter leather with marbled boards, raised bands, gilt lettering to black label on spine, gilt detail to spine, damp staining to right lower corner of first 5 pages and onto engravings and light damp-staining to page edges near bottom half, pages turn easily, rubbing to corners and edges.,464pp.

Overall Good++ to Very Good condition for its age.

Size: 6” x 8 1/2”