Premiere: TBA

Synopsis: The opera is a memory play in which Edith Wharton (1862-1937), the great American writer, looks back on her life. She relives her struggle to realize herself as a woman and a writer in a time that tried to throttle both aspirations. The characters from three of her novels -- AGE OF INNOCENCE, ETHAN FROME, HOUSE OF MIRTH -- help explore the relationship between the creator and the creation. The opera ends on a note of triumph as she rises above her fear and despair, and begins her final novel, THE BUCCANEERS.

Source: Original story based on historical record

Setting: An opera in 3 acts set in France (where Edith Wharton lived more than half of her life) with flashbacks to events in her life; 2’30”

Musical Forces: Major vehicle for Dramatic Soprano (or Lyrico Spinto)
and also a Tenor (who sings 3 roles); plus
7 primary singers in multiple roles: High Soprano, Lyric Soprano, Mezzo Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Baritone, Bass; and
9-12 smaller roles (from SATB chorus)

Ww 2222 (2nds dbl Picc EH Bs Cl C-Bsn, 1st Cl dbl E-flat Cl)
Br 4231 (Tpt 1 dbl picc tpt in B-flat) Timp 2 Perc (incl bells) Hp Cel Str

Musical Style: Neo-romantic tonal

Sample: Excerpts from score; libretto; CD recording of two major EDITH arias and love duet

Contact: www.myronfink.com