This double volume contains two masterpieces of the Czech composer Leos Janacek. Jenufa was the opera which finally brought him international recognition - and, with it, fame at home. Based on Ostrovsky's The Storm, Katya Kabanova contains wonderful music inspired by the composer's love for a much younger woman. The scores are discussed by Arnold Whittall, and the background sources are variously introduced by social and literary historians. John Tyrell comments on an important letter about the genesis of Katya; Sir Charles Mackerras describes his work as an interpreter and advocate of this brilliantly original and dramatic music. Contents: A National Composer Jaroslav Krejci; Drama into Libretto, Karel Brusak; The Challenge from Within: Janacek's Musico-dramatic Mastery, Arnold Whittall; Janacek and Czech Realism, Jan Smaczny; Jenufa: Libretto by Leos Janacek; Jenufa: English translation by Otakar Kraus and Edward Downes; A Russian Heart of Darkness, Alex de Jonge; Janacek's forgotten commentary on 'Katya Kabanova', John Tyrrell; Katya Kabanova: Libretto by Leos Janacek; Katya Kabanova: English translation by Norman Tucker; Janacek's Operas - Preparation and Performance, Charles Mackerras

About the Author
Leos Janacek (1854-1928) was a Czech composer and teacher. Until 1895 he devoted himself mainly to the study of national folklore music, which greatly influenced his work throughout his life.

Reviews
Brilliantly produced and superb value. * The Sunday Times *
All these will provide the new opera-goer with food for thought. * The Daily Telegraph *
Wholehearted recommendation of this valuable new series. * TLS *



Book Information
ISBN 9780714544342
Author Leos Janacek
Format Paperback
Page Count 128
Imprint Overture Publishing
Publisher Alma Books Ltd
Weight(grams) 186g