Berlioz Romo et Juliette [Paperback]

This book examines the complex genesis of Berlioz's Rom?o et Juliette as well as the music itself.Berlioz's dramatic symphony is certainly among his most original works and is regarded by many as his finest. With the intent of understanding its dramatic implications, this study summarizes the complex genesis of the work and provides the libretto in English and French.Berlioz's dramatic symphony is certainly among his most original works and is regarded by many as his finest. With the intent of understanding its dramatic implications, this study summarizes the complex genesis of the work and provides the libretto in English and French.Berlioz's dramatic symphony Roméo et Juliette is regarded by many as his finest work; it is certainly among the most original. This book summarizes the complex genesis of the work before examining the music closely and always with a view to understanding its dramatic implications. Julian Rushton quotes and discusses the early and later critical reception and concludes by suggesting a way of hearing the work that recognizes the value of its mixed genre. The complete libretto is provided in both English and French.List of abbreviations and acknowledgements; 1. Introduction; 2. The genesis of Rom?o et Juliette; 3. Berlioz, Shakespeare and Garrick; 4. Exordium: Introduction and Prologue; Rom?o seul; 5. The heart of the matter: Sc?ne d'amour; La reine Mab; 6. Tragedy and reconciliation: Convoi fun?bre; Rom?o au tombeau; Finale; 7. A view from 1839 by Stephen Heller; 8. Performance and reception: 1839 and beyond; 9. Afterword: Rom?o et Juliette as covert opera; Appendices; Notes; Select bibliography; Index. ...an excellent analysis of Berlioz's dramatic symphony for chorus, solo voices, and orchestra....Highly recommended for all collections as an insightful guide to this compex work. Choice