Samuel Barber: Absolute Beauty (2017)

Plot

Renowned for his poignant "Adagio for Strings," Samuel Barber's artistry often diverged from contemporary trends. This insightful documentary delves into the depths of his music and the sadness that permeated his life. Through a rich tapestry of performances, interviews, and musicological analysis, it illuminates Barber's legacy as one of America's foremost composers. Esteemed figures like Thomas Hampson, Leonard Slatkin, and Marin Alsop offer their perspectives, alongside tributes from iconic composers such as Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copland. Celebrated on PBS and at nine international film festivals, it garnered three best-of awards and was named a Recording of the Year by MusicWeb International in 2017.