A study of a selection of Benjamin Britten's vocal music for mezzo-soprano

The present study, which will investigate three works of Benjamin Britten for mezzosopranos, is envisaged as an aid to interpreters wishing to gain further insights into these works. The study focuses on three vocal works of varying genre: The Rape of Lucretia, A Charm of Lullabies, and Phaedra. The investigation of each work starts with the historical background, in wh ich Britten's life and career at the time of the work is discussed briefly, including reviews of the work. The performers and librettists, who were involved in the composition, are also discussed. Secondly, an analytical survey is done on the text and music for each work. Brief background notes on the writers and poets, and on their style, influences and intentions, are included. The historical background of each text is explored, as well as the role of the character within the narrative, dramatic or literary/poetic context. The musical characteristics of each work are highlighted, which reveal stylistic aspects of Britten's writing. The influence of each work's genre (chamber opera, song cycle and solo cantata) on the interpretation of text and character is discussed, as well as how the voice is accompanied. Lastly, a comparative survey of different recorded portrayals of each work looks at the background history, and approach of the various performers, as well as their advice to other performers.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

College of Music

Year dc:date.issued

2007

Author dc:creator

• Harris, Julie

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Hofmeyr, Hendrik

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11427/8143

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.uct.ac.za:11427/8143