Stravinsky, Igor. (1882–1971) & Cocteau, Jean. (1889–1963)

Oedipus Rex (Piano Reduction)

New York: Boosey & Hawkes. [ca. 1949]. [K-V 47]. Œdipus Rex Opéra-Oratorio en deux Actes d'après Sophocle Opera-Oratorio in two Acts after Sophocles par I. Strawinsky et J. Cocteau Réduction pour Chant et Piano par l'Auteur Reduction for
Voice and Piano by the Composer Nouvelle révision 1948. Piano and vocal score to the "opera-oratorio in two acts after Sophocles" in the 1948 revised version, from the collection of the New York City Opera Company. Folio. 13.5 x 10.5 inches (34 x 26.5 cm). [PN] B. & H. 16992. Original publisher's printed grey wrappers. 1f. (recto title, verso copyright statement), [i] (cast list and orchestration), [ii] (introduction), [i] (prologue), 96 pp. Bifolium of speaker's words, which are in French in the main text, also printed as text in English, inserted before title and fastened with plastic tape. Handstamp of New York City Opera Company to title and numerous pages throughout the volume. Oedipus's part is heavily marked up; English interlinear translation has been added to most (but not all) of his text in pencil. Wrappers wrapped in plastic film. Light toning, some soiling, edge wear, brown stain to lower right corner and a few edge and spine chips; overall very good. 

Stravinsky's Oedipus Rex is an opera-oratorio for orchestra, speaker, soloists, and male chorus. The libretto, based on Sophocles's tragedy, was written by Jean Cocteau in French and then translated by Abbé Jean Daniélou into Latin; the narration, however, is to be performed in the language of the audience. Written towards the beginning of Stravinsky's neoclassical period, it is considered one of the finest works from this phase of the composer's career.

The present copy was most likely used by a singer who appeared as Oedipus in the New York City Opera's company's 1959 production (a double bill with Orff's Carmina Burana, originally conducted by Leopold Stokowski), which was revived multiple times in the 1960s and 1970s. (22011)
Printed Music
Classical Music
Opera