Fantasy and Drama (Paperback)

At the beginning of the 21st century, opera remains as popular a genre as it has ever been. While masterpieces of the past continue to fascinate spectators around the world, newly created works are trying to shape a different type of audience. Particular interest is invested in adaptations of provocative literature, as well as in musical symbolism and theatrical effects. This book provides insight into the creative process, presenting the various elaboration stages of an original musical work. "The Piano Teacher" is an opera in one act, composed with the aim of setting to music a fantastic tale, and also of adopting a personal approach to the operatic genre. A thorough discussion of the nature, influences, and vocabulary of the opera is included along with the full music score. The book addresses problems of musical adaptation, relationship of music and text, stage production, contemporary aesthetics and art reception. Both the score and the analysis should be useful to musicians, dramatic artists, theatre directors and others who may be interested in staging an opera.