Musical Myths and Facts, Volume 2 (of 2)

"Musical Myths and Facts, Volume 2" by Carl Engel, gives insight into the world of music through essays and stories from the late 1800s. The collection examines various musical customs, legendary stories, and historical narratives, especially focusing on well-known composers such as Handel, and the mystical elements linked to music. Primarily, the beginning of the book provides a thorough look into the early life and work of the famous composer George Frederick Handel, from the view of Johann Mattheson, a fellow musician who wrote about their interactions in Hamburg. Engel shares Mattheson's views with an analytical approach, exposing his envy and Handel's amazing progress from a law student to a popular composer. The book looks at important moments, like Handel's problems and rivalries, set against the background of their musical accomplishments and the nature of their friendship, proving Engel's desire to separate truth from myth in musical history.