Fantasy and Drama

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.