Gluck: Alceste (Vienna Version - 1767)
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- Composer: Christoph Willibald Gluck (1714-1787)
- Editor: Gerhard Croll
- Format: Vocal Score
- Instrumentation: Opera
- Work: Alceste (Italian Version), Wq. 37
- Work Languages: German, Italian
- ISMN:
- Size: 7.5 x 10.6 inches
- Pages: 349
- Urtext / Critical Edition
Description
With the premiere of Gluck's "Alceste", the "Burgtheater" Vienna reopened its doors, concluding a period of mourning that had been decreed following the death of Archduchess Maria Josepha. Calzabigi's inspiration for the libretto, which, despite including an element of wonder, focuses entirely on death and the afterworld, most likely stemmed from the death of Empress Maria Theresia's husband. in Euripides' "Alkestis", the librettist might have recognized a sufferer akin to the imperial widow, who was highly regarded by her people. Following in the Greek tragedy tradition, Gluck once more sought to emphasize the unity of the work as a whole and the interplay of all elements involved, including costumes and stage design. He placed great importance on integrating the chorus into the happenings on stage.
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Choral Score
A score for vocalists that only contains the vocal lines. The instrumental parts are not there for reference. Generally, cheaper than a vocal score and requires multiple copies for purchase.
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Study Score
A small (think choral size) copy of the complete score meant for studying, and not playing. They make great add-ons when learning concertos and small chamber works.
Vocal Score
A score prepared for vocalists that includes the piano/organ part or a reduction of the instrumental parts.
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Some publishers prepare two copies - a pure Urtext edition that includes no fingering (or bowing) suggestions and a lightly edited version that includes a minimal number of editorial markings.
Gluck: Alceste (Vienna Version - 1767)
