Rimsky-Korsakow, Nikolai. (1844–1908)
Sadko
Leipzig: M. P. Belaïeff. [1897]. First printing of the piano-vocal score to Rimsky-Korsakov's opera. Title page decorated in colors and gold, in Russian only. Includes the "Song of India" at p. 232. 416 pp. [PN] 1434. Hardcover, red paper boards with quarter brown cloth. Heavy wear to the binding, spine replaced with brown cloth tape; scratches; edge wear; intact but fragile. Overall very good. 10.5 x 13 inches (26.5 x 33 cm).Fuld pp. 518-519. Very rare; WorldCat records only one copy of this version in Russian only, at the BnF.
Rimsky-Korsakov's opera Sadko (Russian: Садко, the name of the main character) is inspired by the bylina (East Slavic oral epic poem) of the same name. The composer initially wrote a tone poem on the subject in 1867, his Op. 5. After finishing his second revision of this work, he decided to turn it into a dramatic work, and composed the opera in 1894–1896. According to the Soviet critic Boris Asafyev, writing in 1922, Sadko constitutes the summit of Rimsky-Korsakov's craft. Among its most famous moments is the Song of India (or Song of the Indian Guest, Hindu Song or Chanson Indoue), which had not been included in the original tone poem. (17471)
Printed Music Classical Music