Richard Wagner: Tristan und Isolde (Cambridge Opera Handbooks) - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521437385 ISBN 13: 9780521437387

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2011

Synopsis

Wagner's Tristan und Isolde occupies a singular position in the history of Western culture. What Nietzsche called the 'sweet and terrible infinity' of its basic nexus of longing and death has fascinated audiences since its first performance in 1865. At the same time, its advanced harmonic language, immediately announced by the opening 'Tristan chord', marks a defining moment in the evolution of modern music. This accessible handbook brings together seven leading international writers to discuss the opera's genesis and the libretto's relationship to late Romantic literary concerns, present an analysis of the Prelude, the music of the drama itself, and Wagner's innovative use of instrumental timbre, and illustrate the production history and reception of the music-drama into the twenty-first century. The book includes the first English translation of Wagner's draft prose of the libretto, a detailed discussion of Wagner's orchestration, and rare pictures from important and influential productions.

About this title

Review:

'How good it is to see the Cambridge Opera Handbooks series revived ... Arthur Groos' edition of Wagner's prose draft of the libretto provides a fascinating insight into his working methods.' Classical Music

'Each [essay] is a considered, thought-provoking exploration of one or more aspects of Tristan, carefully argued and generously annotated.' Opera

Book Description:

Wagner's Tristan und Isolde has fascinated audiences since its first performance in 1865, its advanced harmonic language marking a defining moment in the evolution of modern music. This accessible handbook - perfect for scholars, students, performers and opera-goers alike - examines the opera's genesis, libretto, music, performance and reception.

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2011
• ISBN 10: 0521437385
• ISBN 13: 9780521437387
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 228
• Editor: Groos Arthur