Work Information
| Publisher |
G Schirmer Inc |
Category |
Opera and Music Theatre |
| Year Composed |
1997 |
Duration |
1 , 10 |
| Solo Instrument(s) |
Mezzo soprano, boy Soprano, 3 Sopranos, 2 Baritones, 2 Bass Baritones, Tenor |
Orchestration |
1(pic).1.2.1/2100/perc/hp.pf/str (4.0.1.2.1) |
| Languages |
English |
Availability |
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Programme Note
This is an opera based on a classic children's story that is resonant with the myths, dreams and aspirations of childhood. It celebrates an understanding and acceptance of the process and renewal of the life cycle and the intuitive wisdom of children's insights over dry academic theories and learning. This opera combines rigorous standards of artistic excellence with an energetic and vital form to create a vehicle accessible and appealing to both children and adults.
Cast List: Princess Leonore: Young girl, 11-12 years old Young Boy: 11-12 years old Jester: Mezzo Soprano The King: Baritone Doctor / Gardener / Assistant Goldsmith: Soprano Lord High Chamberlain / Goldsmith: Bass Royal Wizard: Tenor Royal Mathematician: Soprano Chorus of Courtiers: Sung and played by all the singers except for the King, the Jester and Princess Leonore.
Reviews
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Kapilow has cornered the market in quality music addressed to children and their families, and within just a couple of years he has become a very hot commodity, one of America's most performed and sought-after composers. Many Moons is based on the James Thurber story. The libretto by Hilary Blecher is straightforward and atmospheric. The music scampers merrily around [with] the nonstop energy and intelligence that characterizes everything Kapilow does. This piece displays neat craftsmanship, a sharp ear and warm heart.
Richard Dyer , Boston Globe
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It was an opera with a spoonful of honey. Kapilow's musical setting is light-hearted and craftsmanly.
Ellen Pfeifer , Boston Herald
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Kapilow provides a series of lively, sophisticated, often interactive projects that transform classical music into something accessible, engaging, and, dare I say it, fun!
...shades of The Fantastiks, a bluesy bit reminiscent of Porgy and Bess, a quote from The Nutcracker, even a Mozartean-style quartet that somehow transforms into a jazzy Broadway number. In fact, the shifting and blending of operatic and music-theater styles happens throughout, but the fact that Kapilow does it seamlessly and with such ease and conviction makes it come together very effectively.
Kapilow's music...is a freewheeling, eclectic pastiche of styles that rolls merrily along from beginning to end....The score is colorful, vibrant, expertly crafted, and tunefully accessible...the audience immediately feels a part of the proceedings.
Perhaps the strongest element...is Rob Kapilow himself, a delightfully humorous and charismatic pied piper with the energetic zeal of a televangelist.
Karen Campbell , Christian Science Monitor
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