Gavin Bryars (1943)

Medea (1982)

opera for solo voices, mixed choir and orchestra


stage work

  • General information
    • Composition date: 1982
      Revision dates: 1984 , 1995
    • Video, installation (detail, author): Robert Wilson, réalisation et design
    • Duration: 2 h 45 mn
    • Publisher: Schott, nº LSL 1245-01
    • Dedication: Richard Bernas
    • Libretto (details, author):

      Euripide

Detailed formation
  • ensemble of vocal soloists(soprano, contralto, tenor, 3 baritone, bass voice), mixed choir [SATB]
  • 3 flutes (also piccolo, alto flute), 3 clarinets (also Eb clarinet, 2 bass clarinets), 2 bassoons (also contrabassoon), 4 horns, trombone (also bass trombone), tuba, 2 saxophones, 2 harp, piano, timpani, 5 percussionists, 10 violas, 8 cellos [ou 10] , 4 double basses [ou 6]

Premiere information

  • Date: 23 October 1984
    Location:

    France, Opéra de Lyon


  • Date: 3 November 1995
    Location:

    Écosse, Glasgow, Tramway


    Performers:

    Patricia Bardon, nurse ; Gidon Sacts, tutor ; Jeffrey Lawton, Creon ; Majella Cullagh, Medea ; Richard Halton, Jason ; Nicholas Folwell, Aegeus ; David Barrell, messenger ; BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra ; Martyn Brabbins, direction ; Scottish Opera Chorus