WELLESZ, Egon 1885-1974

[Op. 45]. Kantate [Mitte des Lebens] [Piano-vocal score]

Für Sopransolo, Chor und Orchester, über geistliche Texte ... English translation by H.H.C.

Wien–Leipzig: Universal Edition A.G. [PN U.E. 10.387], ©1932.

Small folio. Wrappers. [6], 64, [ii] (blank) pp. Text in German and English. Publisher's catalogue of Wellesz's compositions dated VIII [August] 1932 to verso of lower wrapper.

Wrappers somewhat worn and browned; small tears to spine and right margin.

First Edition, most likely first issue.

Egon Wellesz had a wide-ranging career as both a composer and a musicologist. He studied Baroque opera, wrote a biography of Fux, and undertook pioneering researching into Byzantine chant. His operas experienced great success in both Vienna and Weimar Germany, and his symphonies followed in the tradition of Bruckner and Mahler.

The cantata Mitte des Lebens was composed in 1931 and dedicated to Oxford University, which had recently bestowed upon him an honorary doctorate. The spiritual texts are taken from medieval and Baroque sources and reflect his recent conversion to Catholicism.

Item #34285

Price: $125.00  other currencies