Conversations with Glenn Gould

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Pianist Glenn Gould (1932–82) was one of the most unique and charismatic musicians of the twentieth century, known for his interpretations of Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart at brisk tempos with remarkable clarity. A true eccentric, Gould was famous not only for his musical talent but also for his peculiar habits, such as humming during performances and wearing unconventional attire, including fingerless gloves and fur coats. In 1964, at the peak of his controversial career, he withdrew from live performances to concentrate on recording and writing. Jonathan Cott, a noted author and poet, was among the few who interviewed Gould, capturing their conversation in 1974 for Rolling Stone. After Gould's passing, Cott compiled these interviews into a collection, enhancing it with an introduction, photographs, and lists of Gould's recorded works and media appearances. In this engaging dialogue, Gould shares his opinions on various subjects, including his aversion to Mozart's piano sonatas, his preference for composers like Orlando Gibbons and Richard Strauss, and his admiration for Petula Clark, while expressing his distaste for the Beatles. This collection is widely regarded as one of Gould's finest interviews and a remarkable showcase of his personality.