Franck: Les Béatitudes, Op. 53
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- Composer: César Franck (1822-1890)
- Instrumentation (this edition): Piano Reduction, SATB Choir
- Originally for: SATB Choir, Orchestra
- Work: Les Béatitudes, CFF 185, FWV 53, Op. 53
- Work Language: French
- ISMN:
- Size: 7.5 x 10.6 inches
- Pages: 220
Description
César Franck (1822–1890) is now regarded as one of the most important French composers and organists of his time. "Les Béatitudes", his monumental oratorio setting the text from Jesus's Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5,3ff.), is regarded as his most important work and is on an equal footing with the great oratorios of the 19th century. But Franck himself did not live to hear the extremely successful first performance in summer 1891.
Through its symmetrical dramatic structure, the work conveys the idea of a great arch. A short prologue is followed by eight movements in which the words of Christ are contrasted with earthly scenes. The choir has an important role as commentator on the events. The conclusion of the work is an overwhelming hymn – the entry into paradise.
With this Carus edition, the "Béatitudes" is published in a modern, thoroughly-researched Urtext edition for the first time. The orchestral scoring is typical of the French orchestra of the time. Both the number of soloists and the size of choir required can be reduced by skilful allocation of the roles. The score offers many practical performance suggestions, based on the editors own experience in trying these out. A new vocal score, prepared with ease of playability in mind, replaces the historic reprint edition previously available from Carus. Ambitious amateur choirs can also perform this magnificent work.
Publishers use a lot of words to describe what they sell, and we know it can be confusing. We've tried to be as clear as possible to make sure you get exactly what you are looking for. Below are descriptions of the terms that we use to describe the various formats that music often comes in.
Choral Score
A score for vocalists that only contains the vocal lines. The instrumental parts are not there for reference. Generally, cheaper than a vocal score and requires multiple copies for purchase.
Facsimile
Reproductions of the original hand-written scores from the composer.
Full Score
For ensemble music, this indicates that the edition contains all parts on a single system (there are not separate parts for each player). In larger ensembles, this is for the conductor.
Hardcover
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Similar to a wind set, this is a collection of parts. In the case of strings, the numbers listed are the number of copies included, though generally these are available individually (often with minimum quantities required).
Paperback
When publishers offer multiple bindings (e.g. hardcover) or study scores, this is the "standard" version. If you're planning to play the music, this is probably what you want.
Performance / Playing Score
A score of the music containing all parts on one system, intended for players to share. There are not separate parts for each player.
Set of Parts
For ensemble music, this indicates that there are separate individual parts for each player.
Solo Part with Piano Reduction
For solo pieces with orchestra, this is a version that contains a piano reduction of the orchestra parts. For piano pieces, two copies are typically needed for performance.
Study Score
A small (think choral size) copy of the complete score meant for studying, and not playing. They make great add-ons when learning concertos and small chamber works.
Vocal Score
A score prepared for vocalists that includes the piano/organ part or a reduction of the instrumental parts.
Wind Set
For orchestral music, this is a collection of wind and percussion parts. The specific quantities of each instrument are notated.
With Audio
In addition to the printed music, the edition contains recordings of the pieces. This may be an included CD, or access to files on the internet.
With / Without Fingering (Markings)
Some publishers prepare two copies - a pure Urtext edition that includes no fingering (or bowing) suggestions and a lightly edited version that includes a minimal number of editorial markings.
Franck: Les Béatitudes, Op. 53
