New Fiction Novel Explores the Cryptic Life of Famous Composer

George Frideric Handel lived in an unstable 18th century Europe. He skillfully adjusted to the tense political climates of Germany, Italy and England, along the way expanding his musical talent. Opera composing formed a base from which he flourished, on his way to becoming one of the most famous Baroque composers.

While his musical career has been well documented, his more private affairs are shrouded in obscurity. Marie Gotoh uses her deep insight of classic music and history to explore the potential private life of Handel in "Bright Star: Handel, his life and his world."

"Bright Star" delves into Handel's love for opera, his experiences throughout Europe and the ups and downs surrounding his musical career. Handel was born a Protestant in Germany and then adapted to the Catholic-conforming Italian culture. He then moved on to London. The young composer faces uncertainty at every turn, but his musical talent transcends both time and place.

"The public life of Handel has been well chronicled," says Gotoh. "His bank account information was even open knowledge, but his private affairs are something of a mystery. Bright Star is my attempt to bring him back to life, while also filling in some of those gaps. It is an entertaining narrative that mixes historical facts with imagination."

"Bright Star: Handel, his life and his world"
By Marie Gotoh
ISBN: 9781504367073 (hardcover) 9781504367066 (softcover) 9781504367233 (ebook)
Available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Balboa Press

About the author
Marie Gotoh is a fervent classic music lover, amateur pianist and occasional choir member. Throughout her studies, Gotoh focused on Art History while keeping her love of music alive. While studying for her PhD in History of Art at La Sorbonne in Paris, she realized how closely music and art are linked. Gotoh was born in Japan and has spent the last 18 years in London.

Review Copies & Interview Requests:
LAVIDGE - Phoenix
Jacquelyn Brazzale
480 998 2600 x 569
jbrazzale(at)lavidge(dot)com

General Inquiries:
LAVIDGE - Phoenix
Satara Williams
480-998-2600 x 586
swilliams(at)lavdige(dot)com

To post a comment, you must register and login.