Alban Berg: Wozzeck (Cambridge Opera Handbooks) [Paperback]

Douglas Jarman (Author), Wozzeck (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 30, 1989 | Series: Cambridge Opera Handbooks

Alban Berg's Wozzeck is one of the most significant operas of the twentieth century. Douglas Jarman's study provides a clear and accessible introduction to this work, placing it in the context of the radical developments in musical language during the early decades of the century and of the development of Berg's own musical style. The book covers all aspects of the work. Early chapters are devoted to the history and discovery of the Buchner play Woyzeck on which Berg based the libretto and to the background and composition of the opera. A detailed synopsis takes the reader through the events on stage in relation to the structured musical effects. Particular attention is given in the subsequent chapter to the unique dramatic and musical design of the opera. In offering a possible interpretation of the work Douglas Jarman considers this closely organized structure in relation to the expressionistic language of the music. A final chapter charts the performances of the opera, in particular early productions, which are illustrated with many hitherto unpublished photographs from Berg's own lifetime. An important feature of the book is the inclusion of many important and otherwise unobtainable contemporary documents concerned with the play and the opera, includine Karl Emil Franzos's description of the reconstruction of the fragmented Buchner play and three commentaries by Berg himself on the opera. This comprehensive guide will be invaluable to the student and opera-goer wishing to unravel the musical and dramatic complecities of this important work.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"...an interesting, stimulating, and valuable guide to Berg's best-known opera." Choice

"In his Cambridge Opera Handbook on Wozzeck, Douglas Jarman presents a comprehensive view of Berg's opera, with chapters on the play and libretto, Berg's prior compositions, and the formal design." Dave Headlam, Notes

"...contributes significantly to the lexicon of Berg analysis....Jarman's organization is extremely clear....Especially welcome are the nineteen illustrations, all but one of which depict Wozzeck designs and performances during Berg's lifetime." Jon Alan Conrad, Opera Quarterly

Book Description

The unique qualities of the opera's composition, musical language and style are considered in the context of the radical developments of the period in this introduction.

Product Details

• Paperback: 181 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press (June 30, 1989)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0521284813
• ISBN-13: 978-0521284813
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.2 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,020,361 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.