George P. (George Putnam) Upton

George P. (George Putnam) Upton
George Putnam Upton (1834–1919) was an American music critic, journalist, and author known for his significant contributions to music literature. He worked for the "Chicago Daily Tribune" for over 50 years, serving as music editor and critic, shaping the city's cultural scene. Upton authored several influential books on classical music, including "The Standard Oratorios" and "The Standard Operas," which introduced many American readers to European musical traditions. His writings were known for their accessibility, and he played a key role in popularizing classical music in the United States.

Author's Books:


AUBER. Daniel François Esprit Auber, one of the most prominent representatives of the opera comique, was born at Caen, in Normandy, Jan. 29, 1784. He first attracted attention in the musical world by his songs and ballads, written when a mere boy. Young as he was, they were great favorites in French and English drawing-rooms, and their success diverted him from his commercial intentions to that... more...

THE ORATORIO. The oratorio in its modern form is a musical setting of a sacred story or text in a style more or less dramatic. Its various parts are assigned to the four solo voices and to single or double chorus, with accompaniment of full orchestra, sometimes amplified by the organ. Like the opera, it has its recitative, linking together and leading up to the various numbers. The origin of the word... more...