Stanley (music, U. of Connecticut) offers 17 contributions that reflect traditional emphasis in Beethoven studies while incorporating some of the most recent developments in musicology and theory. Chapters on his professional activities and methods as a composer provide a view of the composer as a private individual, a professional, and at work. The heart of the book discusses all the major genres cultivated by Beethoven as well as the elements of style and structure found in them all. The volume concludes with examinations of the ways that Beethoven and his music have been interpreted by performers, by writers on music, and in the arts, literature, and philosophy. A readable study of interest both to scholars and the general audience with some musical background. Contains a few b&w illustrations. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)