Customer Reviews

The Janacek Opera Libretti: Translations and Pronunciation, Vol. 1--Prihody lisky Bystrousky, The Cunning Little Vixen

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Explicit, pertinent information including IPA and examples, translations, and explanations, for the singer tackling this opera and wishing to give the best possible impression, without speaking the language! Although I swear every time that I will only sing in the future in a language I speak and understand, this is a great springboard with the tools to give a notable performance, of an opera that's very worthwhile and beautiful.

From Sir Thomas Allen, internationally acclaimed baritone, celebrated interpreter of the role of the Forester in both English and Czech productions:
ÒThe careers of most professional singers are taken up with the literature of the principle European languages, and the literature with which they become involved as part of standard repertoire. However, with the now established popularity of the works of Leos Janacek, the need for a familiarity with the Czech language has taken on a greater significance.
Translations into the vernacular exist, of course. Having sung the role of Forester on several occasions in English, it has always been a matter of great frustration when one tries to match a suitable English text to the intricate rhythms Janacek has written.
Timothy CheekÕs book comes as a work of great diligence, every word of the original Czech libretto analysed and transliterated for the non-Czech speaker. From personal experience I know the great worth and value of Prihody lisky Bystrousky, and this book will be an invaluable aid to anyone approaching the Ôopera as intendedÕ, making it ever more accessible.
It may be argued that the student ought to put horse before cart, and have the basic rudiments, and more, of the language, rather than tackling it phonetically in this way. A point well made, but I would argue the case to be made for more and more of us hearing Janacek: work with the Czech libretto. There is no substitute for that first-hand unsullied experience, in music that contains such vital rhythmic identity.Ó

From Catherine Malfitano, soprano, international interpreter of Janacek roles:
ÒHere is a most welcome libretto that reveals many treasures for the professional and amateur alike. I love the dual translations, both word for word and idiomatic, right next to the IPA pronunciation guide to these Czech lyrics. This first in a series of Janacek Opera Libretti offers many invaluable nuggets of background information; musical, linguistic, stylistic, and cultural. Keep this volume by your opera score for immediate reference. I look forward to the KATYA and JENUFA Libretti, with eager anticipation. Bravo, Tim Cheek !Ó