PDF Music Reading for Guitar by David Oakes in Arts-Photography

Review

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Briings necessary attention to a director whose name adorns some of the most famous musicals ever madeBy Victor ThomasCharles Walters is one of the few directors who started not only as a performer; but as an acclaimed performer; on Broadway no less. He directed at MGM during its peak Freed unit years; helming some of their biggest hits; yet has rarely been accorded the attention that other musical directors such as Minnelli and Berkeley have received. He seems to have preferred it that way; in that he was seen as a craftsman who delivered on budget; sort of like a musical "one take" W.S.Van Dyke. He wasnt flashy; but was hands on; respected; well-liked.He usually worked with performers who were already established; and managed to keep them afloat; tailoring to their talents. The one exception was Leslie Caron; who was still on the rise; and who had her stardom cemented by Lili; which is one of the few films that did show a more emotional; personal Walters stamp; for which he was rewarded an Oscar nomination. This biography uncovered interesting factoids; such as his unheralded work on Gigi; his lack of rapport with Debbie Reynolds and Vera-Ellen; and his pre-film career on Broadway.Walters was a very private man; reminding me a little of Hermes Pan; as both allowed others to hog the spotlight; while working steadily for decades; Walters living more openly as a gay man than Pan was able to do. This book successfully resurrects a neglected and underrated talent; and does much to give due credit to Walters for his many contributions to entertainment.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Celebrate Charles Walters!By Kal PeytonCharles Walters was the unsung hero of many of the glorious MGM musicals. Brent Williams; at last; provides the long over due biography of this important director. If you enjoyed "Easter Parade"; "High Society"; "Summer Stock" among others of that era; Charles Walters was the man who made the stars (and the stories) come alive on the screen. As a talented dancer in New York who made his way to Hollywood; he had the ability to make all the actors he worked with feel he was committed to their success. The stars returned his direction and care with memorable performances. To this day his work and his films are fresh; entertaining and visually stunning. We have all heard of the other directors of MGM musicals forever; now the story of the man that made the musicals really sing - can now be told. Walters was courageous enough to live his live as a gay director; when one had to stay "in the closet" to have a career in the 40s; 50s and 60s. This behind the scene story is for everyone who enjoyed the glorious Hollywood musical treats. His ability to get Judy Garland to perform on film and stage is also revealing and entertaining. Charles Walters indeed did make Hollywood dance. and his talents are now documented and celebrated!0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Reverent and JoyusBy Peter FieldsA completely captivating account of one of MGMs foremost directors. Never salacious; yet deliciously behind the scenes; its impossible to put down. If youre not familiar with Charles Walters; youll be amazed and pleased with how many of your favorite films he directed. The stories and memories of those he surrounded himself with never fail to enlighten the reader of a man who was probably far too loving and respectful of his art to really be appreciated during his lifetime. A must read.