However, for most of us it doesn’t take too long before our brains start thinking about the next season. Among the myriad details you will probably ponder while mowing the grass is the all-important matter of repertoire. If you are pondering a masterwork for next season (and if not, WHY not?), you might want to consider the choice of performing edition along with simply selecting a piece.
In his article, “The Edition You Chose Matters” (Southern Harmony, Vol.27, No.2), Lee Barrow gives this matter a thoughtful airing.
How does one determine which edition to use? The first step is to examine available scores. If possible, compare two or more editions of the same work, measure by measure. What differences exist? Does an edition use words such as arranged, adapted, based on, setting by or something similar that indicates changes to the original? Is the editor’s name given? Does the music contain a written preface which discusses editorial decisions, sources, etc.? Are there markings in the score that raise red flags for a conductor who is cognizant of historical practices in the different eras?
Lee goes on to discuss a variety of considerations, including differences in publishers, sources, and the influence of the editor.
(To access the full article, simply click the highlighted title. For additional articles on a dazzling array of choral topics, visit ChorTeach.)
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