Stage (Revision of Boris Godunov), 1952 - 1953
Scope and Contents
This subseries consists of materials related to Rathaus's work for the Metropolitan Opera to restore the original version of Modest Mussorgsky's Boris Godunov. It includes programs, published scores, and clippings, as well as Rathaus's manuscripts, notes, and sketches. Included also are versions of the work in Russian and a large folder of correspondence related to the work and its commissioning. See also the Boris Godunov file in the Programs and Reviews subseries for additional materials.
Dates
- 1952 - 1953
Conditions Governing Access
Appointments to examine materials must be made in advance. Please e-mail QC.archives@qc.cuny.edu for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Historical Note
According to Boris Schwarz, "In 1952, he [Rathaus] was commissioned by the Metropolitan Opera to restore the original version of [Modest] Mussorgsky's Boris Godunov, heretofore known principally in Rimsky-Korsakov's version. A painstaking comparison of all available sources enabled Rathaus to incorporate into the score Mussorgsky's own corrections made shortly after the early performances of the opera in 1874. The original sequence of scenes was restored, Rimsky's tamperings were removed, and the original orchestration was retouched sparingly wherever practical considerations made it necessary. It was not Rathaus's intention to add a new 'version' to those already in existence. What emerged was an authentic edition, lacking perhaps the brilliant gloss of Rimsky's version, but far truer to the intentions of the composer." Quoted from Schwarz, Boris. “Karol Rathaus.” The Musical Quarterly, vol. 41, no. 4, 1955, p. 486.
Extent
From the Collection: 30 Linear Feet
Language of Materials
From the Series: English
Creator
- From the Collection: Rathaus, Karol, 1895-1954 (Person)
Repository Details
Part of the Queens College (New York, N.Y.) Special Collections and Archives Repository
Queens College Library, CUNY
Benjamin Rosenthal Library RO317
65-30 Kissena Boulevard
Flushing 11367 USA us
QC.Archives@qc.cuny.edu
