ABT Makarova-Baryishnikov Giselle Video Question

[Solor]

I noticed in a video I got from the library of Makarova and Baryishnikov in Giselle with ABT that the music was re-done by Lanchbery......just wondering if anyone knows why. Adams score is quite good! I liked his arrangements but I think they were not all that necessary.

[Mel Johnson]

It was my understanding that the ABT edition of the score sounded rather thin when recorded, so Lanchbery rearranged it so it would sound well given the forces of a full symphony orchestra-sized ensemble. Adam's score, as recorded by Bonynge with all of the original production music restored, was a very different-sounding piece of music. Most companies today use a version of the orchestration made by Riccardo Drigo for the Petipa revival of the ballet in Russia. He even ditched the original coda, and tipped in a larghetto soft finale (by Glazunov?) for the final curtain. Drigo isn't the only one who's rearranged the score. Ernest Ansermet and Anatole Fistoulari were also prominent editors of the music, sometimes, I suspect, working from a piano score, and creating a whole new piece of music, from a sound standpoint.

[its the mom]

Solor: I am too new on Ballet Alert to send private messages. I would love to get in touch with you about some music. Any way I can do this?

[Alexandra]

Please feel free to ask your questions on the forum -- that's why we put it up (The moderators can't answer individual questions, whether by PMs or email, I'm sorry -- we get too many, another reason why we put up a message board.)

[Solor]

I have an extended collwction of rare 19th century ballet music. If u need some let me know!

[its the mom]

Thanks so much. I finally was able to find a copy of the Swan Lake music I needed. Also found The Art of the Prima Ballerina, but in record form only. What a wonderful find! I'll keep in mind your offer. Thanks so much.