Joachim Raff (1822-1882), a protg of both Mendelssohn and Liszt, was one of the most popular composers in the second half of the nineteenth century. This book, the only biography of him ever published, is an essential source for anyone interested in his fascinating life and times and Alan Howe's splendid, idiomatic and extremely readable translation makes it available in English for the first time. Helene Raff's distinctively brisk voice, objective and unsentimental in her judgement of her father, is masterfully brought to life for today's readers. This modern edition significantly enhances the original 1925 book with many illustrations, extensively researched footnotes, a complete work list and an index.