Synopses & Reviews
This book presents a lively and informative account of Die Meistersinger von NÜrnberg, including its literary sources and the evolution of the text from a light comic opera into its final form. John Warrack examines the music and historical tradition of the Mastersingers; Lucy Beckett analyzes the Hans Sachs character and reveals how Wagner communicates with his audience, both musically and dramatically; Michael Tanner suggests new ways to interpret Meistersinger as a reflection of Wagner's overall view of opera; while Patrick Carnegy provides a history of key productions. The volume contains a full synopsis, bibliography, and music examples as well as three valuable appendices.
Review
"This introductory study fully realizes the aims of a Cambridge Opera Handbook by presenting abundant, synoptic, analytical, and historical information about Die Meistersinger along with distinctive critical interpretations." Opera Quarterly
Synopsis
Presents an informative and stimulating study of an opera that occupies a particular place in music lovers' affections.
Synopsis
This book presents an informative and stimulating study of an opera that occupies a particular place in music-lovers' affections, yet always has more to reveal. John Warrack traces the evolution of the work from plans for a light comic opera, through all the drafts and the literary influences on them, into the eventual comedy; he then studies the music in depth.
Synopsis
In addition to exploring the opera's literary sources and its evolution from light comedy, this account examines the music and historical tradition of the Mastersingers as well as the Hans Sachs character, and reveals how Wagner communicates with his audience, musically and dramatically.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 168-172) and index.
Table of Contents
List of illustrations; General preface; Acknowledgements; Abbreviations; Composition and performance details; 1. The sources and genesis of the text John Warrack; 2. Synopsis John Warrack; 3. Sachs, Beckmesser, and Mastersong John Warrack; 4: Sachs and Schopenhauer Lucy Beckett; 5. Richard Wagner and Hans Sachs Michael Tanner; 6. Die Meistersinger: naive or sentimental art? Lucy Beckett; 7. Wahn, words and music John Warrack; 8. Stage history Patrick Carnegy; Appendices: 1. The Wahn monologue; 2. Sachs's final address; 3. The original Prize Song; Notes; Bibliography; Index.