Orchestration in musical theatre / Paul R. Laird and Elizabeth Sallinger.

Author/creator Laird, Paul R.
Other author Sallinger, Elizabeth, author.
Format Book
Publication InfoLondon ; New York : Methuen Drama, ©2025.
Descriptionx, 112 pages ; 17 cm.
Subjects

SeriesTopics in musical theatre
Topics in musical theatre. ^A1464421
Contents Introduction: the craft of orchestration -- Hair: Broadway rocks -- The Phantom of the Opera: a study in tradition -- The Lion King: timbral diversity on Broadway -- Wicked: wrapping an orchestra around a rock band -- Hamilton: Broadway raps -- Wrapping it up.
Abstract This book offers an analytic and critical overview of the practice, execution, and effects of orchestration in musical theatre since the time that rock music became significant in the genre. Broadly described as the art of arranging a piece of music for a particular musical ensemble, orchestration is a specific skill that few composers or songwriters possess. This volume helps the reader understand and appreciate the art of orchestration and traces how the incorporation of rock and other types of popular music into scores for musical theatre on Broadway and in the West End fundamentally changed the genre's sound. From discussions of specific instrumentation through to a brief history of the art, this book demystifies how different instrumentation contributes to a show's soundscape. Featuring case studies from shows such as Hair, The Phantom of the Opera, The Lion King, Wicked, and Hamilton, this accessible and engaging volume in the Topics in Musical Theatre series gives students the tools to identify and discuss how orchestration contributes to the drama, characterization and dramaturgy of the modern musical.
Bibliography noteIncludes bibliographical references and index.
ISBN135045124X paperback
ISBN9781350451247 paperback
ISBNelectronic publication
ISBNebook

Availability

Library Location Call Number Status Item Actions
Music Music Stacks ML455 .L35 2025 ✔ Available Place Hold