(Hinshaw Secular). The latest volume. Penderecki and the avant-garde examines the composer's quest for an original musical language in the broader context of the global avant-garde movement. Over 30 articles and reviews deftly chronicle the captivating efforts of these musical pioneers, seeking to reach their audiences with a distinctive and original musical message in the face of challenging societal constraints. A must starting point for any enlightened consideration of Penderecki's unique contributions to this watershed period of 20th century music.(384 pages.)