Udow: The Twelve Labors of Hercules (Version for Orchestra, Choir, Guitars, Steel Drums, & Narrator)
Expected to ship in 1-2 weeks.
- Composer: Michael Udow (1949-)
- Format: Full Score
- Instrumentation (this edition): SATB Choir, Orchestra, Narrator, Guitar Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble
- Originally for: SATB Choir, String Orchestra, Narrator, Brass Quintet, Percussion Ensemble
- Work: The Twelve Labors of Hercules (2024)
- Binding: Spiral Bound
- Size: 11.0 x 16.9 inches
Description
Instrumentation: Picc, Fl, Ob, Eng. Hn, Eb Cl, 2 Bb Cl, Bass Cl, 2 Bn, 2 Tpt, 2 Hn, Tbn, Bass Tbn, Tba, Tmp, 5 Perc, Hp, Strings, and Narrator, Chamber or Large Choir, Guitar Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Steel Drum Ensemble, Film (optional)
Composer's Note:
The Twelve Labors of Hercules was commissioned by Edeta Arts, John Crozman, CEO, in recognition of Llíria, Spain being designated as a UNESCO City of Music. This was one of ten works I composed based on my experiences in Llíria. It was premiered on July 6, 2024 for the Impressions of Llíria festival.
An archeological dig commenced when bits of a mosaic-tiled floor made of tiny stones was uncovered at a construction site in Llíria in 1917. The mosaic depicting the twelve mythological labors of Hercules is over 18 feet long by almost 15 feet wide. It is exhibited in Madrid at the National Archaeological Museum of Spain. A replica of the mosaic may be viewed in Llíria. The tiles consist of varying sizes of stone. This monumental discovery became the inspiration and impetus for this composition.****
Wagnerian scholar Hans von Wolzogen coined the term Leitmotiv (Leitmotif), an easily recognized musical theme, either melodic, harmonic, or rhythmic. While previous composers utilized thematic materials, Richard Wagner's Leitmotifs provide grounded symbolic structural meaning to his operatic "Ring Cycle". in this work, I have employed Leitmotifs for Hercules, King Eurystheus, and Queen Hera. The programmatic music portrays the trials, travails, and tribulations that the heroic Hercules faces during his redemptive journey.
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
Hardbound. Generally either linen-covered or half-leather.
Orchestral Parts
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
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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.



