Bela Bartok is now recognized as one of the most significant figures in the rise of musical modernism, placed alongside Debussy, Stravinsky and the composers of the Second Viennese School in the pantheon of this century's most significant innovators. In this collection of essays, some of the world's leading Bartok specialists, including Benjamin Suchoff, Roy Howat and the composer's son, examine every aspect of his musical output as well as offering insights into his career as a pianist and teacher.