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W. A. Mozart: Die Zauberfloete Peter Branscombe

W. A. Mozart: Die Zauberfloete By Peter Branscombe

W. A. Mozart: Die Zauberfloete by Peter Branscombe


$35.99
Condition - Very Good
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Summary

This book is a detailed study of Mozart's last opera. The sources for the opera are discussed, and there are chapters devoted to the composition of the work, the authorship and qualities of the libretto, the music, early productions and performance history, and the practical problems of directing a production.

W. A. Mozart: Die Zauberfloete Summary

W. A. Mozart: Die Zauberfloete by Peter Branscombe

Few operas have had more written about them than The Magic Flute, yet few are as often exposed to misguided comment - or to idiosyncratic productions. This book sets out to provide a straightforward account of Mozart's last opera, exposing the half-truths and legends that have proliferated since its first production in 1791. In the first chapter a hitherto unsuspected source for the opening scene is presented and Branscombe reveals the complex relationship between the stories, essays and stage-works on which the plot is based. The second chapter studies the intellectual background, with special attention to Freemasonry. A detailed synopsis follows, then the history of the composition, based on documentary evidence and, in the case of the autograph score, the paper-types used. Chapter 5 examines the identity of the librettist and the qualities of his work, and chapter 6 is a detailed study (by Erik Smith) of Mozart's music and more generally of his late style. Chapter 7 covers the first performance, the cast, early reception, and then the rapid growth in the opera's fame; an outline history of productions concludes the chapter. Anthony Besch discusses the nature of the challenge to the director presented by Die Zauberfloete and suggests how the problems can be overcome. The book contains illustrations, a synopsis, bibliography and discography and will be of interest to music students, scholars and opera-goers.

Table of Contents

1. The sources: introduction; 2. The intellectual background: freemasonry; 3. Synopsis; 4. The writing of Die Zauberflote; 5. The libretto; 6. The music Erik Smith; 7. Performance and reception; 8. A director's approach Anthony Besch; 9. Problems; Notes; Bibliography; Discography; Index.

Additional information

GOR004371187
9780521319164
0521319161
W. A. Mozart: Die Zauberfloete by Peter Branscombe
Used - Very Good
Paperback
Cambridge University Press
19910531
264
N/A
Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.
This is a used book - there is no escaping the fact it has been read by someone else and it will show signs of wear and previous use. Overall we expect it to be in very good condition, but if you are not entirely satisfied please get in touch with us

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