Adagio for Strings eye." In 1938, Olin Downes noted that with the piece, Barber "achieved something as perfect in mass and detail as his craftsmanship permits." In an edition of "A Conductor's Analysis of Selected Works", John William Mueller devoted over 20 pages to "Adagio for Strings". Wayne Clifford Wentzel, author of "Samuel Barber: A Research and Information Guide (Composer Resource Manuals)", said that it was a piece usually selected for a closing act because it was moderately famous. Roy Brewer, writer for AllMusic, stated that it was one of the most recognizable pieces of American concert music. G. Schirmer has published several
The Saddest Music in the World piano as the building burns. "The Saddest Music in the World" was released theatrically in Canada on September 7, 2003, to the UK on October 25, 2003, and to the US on February 14, 2004. TVAFilms released it to home video on DVD in 2004, with a director's commentary by Maddin and Mark McKinney, and three short films: "A Trip to the Orphanage," "Sombra Dolorosa," and "Sissy Boy Slap Party." Directors Guild of Canada: Genie Awards U.S. Comedy Arts Festival "The Saddest Music in the World" was well received by critics. On review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds