Verdi, Giuseppe. (1813–1901)
Rigoletto, Giovanni d'Arco & Alzira: Selected Early and First Editions
An intriguing grouping of eight rare early and first edition separate number piano-vocal or pianoforte solo (2) scores, as follows. All oblong folio, 38.5 x 27 cm or 35.5 x 26 cm (Rigoletto); scattered minor foxing, generally fine - very fine. Of particular note are the four numbers issued by Fabricatore from Alzira. The opera was first staged in Naples and Ricordi's edition did not appear until 1846, making these almost certainly the first and unreported issues of the opera. Hopkinson notes that in the 1846 Ricordi edition, the Fabricatore are given as Verdi's agents or distributors in Naples but that "I have not encountered any of their publications" (Bibliography of Giuseppe Verdi, p. 42).Rigoletto. Milan: Ricordi. [1851]. Duet no. 7. Illustrated lithographed title vignette depicting the famous quartet of act III, with engraved music. [PN] 23177. Single pagination: 1-9 pp.
Giovanni d'Arco. Naples: B. Girard. [1845]. First complete Neopolitan Edition. Hopkinson 43A(h). 3 issues:
Scena e Romanza (Quale piu fido amico). Engraved music: [PN] 6974c. Double pagination: 1-4; 135-138 pp.
Scena, Racconto e Cavatina (Sotto una quercia parvemi). Engraved music: [PN] 6961/6986c. Single pagination: 1-14 pp.
Sinfonia (ridotta per Pianoforte solo). Engraved music: [PN] 6959c. Single pagination: 1-10 pp.
Alzira. Naples: Fratelli Fabricatore. [1845?]). First Edition. 4 issues, each with Title with blue ornamental borders:
Scena e Cavatina (Da Cusman su fragil barca). Engraved music: [PN] 195. Single pagination: [1]-11 pp.
Scena e Cavatina (Eterna la memoria). Engraved music: [PN] 196. Single pagination: [1]-8 pp.
Sinfonia (ridotta del Maeo: Biscardi). Engraved music: [PN] 197. Single pagination: [1]-9 pp.
Scena ed Aria (Irne lungi ancordovrei). Engraved music: [PN] 198. Single pagination: [1]-8 pp. (22178)
Opera Printed Music