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Die Fledermaus (The Bat) (complete opera): Light Opera, Full Orchestra Accompaniment Tenor Choral Score

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Die Fledermaus (The Bat) (complete opera) Cover Image

Die Fledermaus (The Bat) (complete opera): Light Opera, Full Orchestra Accompaniment Tenor Choral Score

By Johann Strauss II

Item: 36-A228495

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Description
The comic operetta DIE FLEDERMAUS (The Bat) by Johann Strauss II (1825-1899) is the composer's best known operetta, though "The Waltz King" is perhaps better remembered yet for his contributions to that uniquely Habsburg Vienna dance with the infectious rhythm. Telling a farcical tale of practical jokes, masked identities, the test of true love, and other shenanigans, the original source is a play by German playwright Julius Roderich Benedix (Das Gefängnis), which was translated into a French vaudeville play, "Le réveillon" by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halévy, which was then translated back to German by Karl Haffner, whose translation was finally used as the source for the libretto by Richard Genèe. Written following a couple of less successful efforts to enter the opera world, this light opera premiered at the Theater an der Wien in Vienna on April 5th, 1874, and remains one of the most popular in the contemporary repertoire. Instrumentation: 2(2dPicc).2.2.2: 4.2.3.0: Timp.Perc(3): Hp: Str (4-4-3-3-3 in set): Vocal Soli (9 roles, SSSMezzoTTTBarBar): Chorus.

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Additional Details
Series: Kalmus Opera Library
Publisher: Keiser Productions, Inc.
ISBN10: 1-63-887720-3
ISBN13: 978-1-63-887720-2
UPC: 735816307660
SKU: 36-A228495
Instrumentation: Light Opera, Orchestra Accompaniment

More about this title

About the Composer: Johann Strauss II

Johann Strauss II (1825-1899) inherited his father's dance orchestra and transformed it into an institution that defined the sound of 19th-century Vienna. While he earned the title "Waltz King" through his contributions to orchestral dance music, Strauss proved equally gifted at dramatic composition, writing 16 operettas that showcased his melodic genius and theatrical instinct.

Die Fledermaus stands as his masterpiece in this genre. Premiering in 1874, it demonstrates Strauss's ability to weave waltz rhythms, spoken dialogue, and complex ensemble writing into a cohesive dramatic work. The opera remains a staple of opera houses worldwide and a vital teaching text for understanding how popular musical forms can sustain serious dramatic structure.

Why we love this

This tenor choral score unlocks one of opera's most performed comedies for singers who might not have easy access to the full orchestral parts. The music itself is immediately singable; Strauss's melodies sit naturally for tenors, and the harmonic language is transparent enough that singers can hear where they belong without drowning in orchestral texture. Directors programming this work gain a piece that consistently draws audiences and offers their ensemble a genuine theatrical challenge without the daunting complexity of heavier operatic fare.

What to expect

Die Fledermaus bubbles with infectious charm. The music dances rather than marches; even in moments of feigned drama, Strauss's melodies retain a winking lightness. Singers move through passages of elegant simplicity punctuated by elaborate ensemble numbers where the full theatrical machinery comes into play, creating an experience that feels celebratory rather than strenuous.

Who it's for

Opera companies, university music theater programs, and community opera groups fielding a strong tenor section and full orchestra will find this score immediately accessible. Singers comfortable with lyric tenor roles and conductors seeking a comedic operetta with genuine musical substance should give this priority attention.

How to get the most out of it

  • Approach the spoken dialogue passages with comedic timing and clarity; these moments carry the plot's momentum and frame the musical numbers effectively.
  • Balance your tenor section carefully in the ensemble scenes, particularly the Act II finales where multiple vocal lines weave together. A strong rehearsal focus on part independence will pay dividends.
  • Use the waltz rhythms as an anchor for phrase shaping. Strauss built his melodies on naturally danceable patterns, so let the underlying pulse inform your legit singing rather than work against it.
  • Coordinate exits and entrances precisely during the masked ball sequences. The theatrical energy depends on crisp stage management that matches the music's buoyant pace.

How to use it

This work anchors a spring season, offering your ensemble and audience a genuine theatrical triumph. It pairs well with contemporary comedies or shorter dramatic works in an evening that emphasizes variety. Consider programming it as a full production to showcase your ensemble's theatrical capabilities while capitalizing on public appetite for familiar, crowd-pleasing repertoire.

Skills your students will build

  • Singing operatic Italian text with proper diction and phrase continuity
  • Navigating transitions between sung numbers and spoken dialogue
  • Sustaining legit tenor line while maintaining theatrical presence and comedic timing
  • Ensemble coordination in complex multi-voice finales and ensemble numbers
  • Interpreting Strauss's waltz-based melodic language and characteristic rhythmic patterns

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