Irwin Spector

Biography of Irwin Spector, b. 1916, d. 1995.

Dr. Irwin Spector was a noted educator, musicologist, and composer. He received his PhD from New York University in 1952, studied composition with Nadia Boulanger (1953-1954), and achieved a diploma in Orchestral Conducting from the Paris Conservatory in 1954. Dr. Spector was a Professor of Music at Illinois State University 1948-1976, and a Visiting Professor at the University of Kansas 1968-1969. Dr. Spector is most recognized for his work Rhythm and Life: The Work of Emile Jaques-Dalcroze (1990). This biography of Jaques-Dalcroze is a survey of his principal compositions, an explanation and demonstration of his pedagogical works, his sensational ear training method, especially the landmark project rythmique (eurythmics: physical responses to rhythm and other musical elements). Dr. Spector discusses musical life in Switzerland, particularly the inimitable festivals, and shows how Jaques Dalcroze's ideas served as a springboard in the development of modern dance and theatre, and in general education and therapy for the handicapped [book description from publisher's web site].