"A very good introduction to anyone beginning to listen to Messiaen's music."--Music and Musicians (on the first edition). This second edition of Roger Nichols's critical study of Olivier Messiaen--considered the most important French composer since Debussy and Ravel--has been brought up to date with new material on the two works composed since the first edition was published. This is a perceptive guide to the composer's development and aims, and a valuable introduction to his compositions.