John Philip Sousa's operetta El capitan : a historical, analytical and performance guide

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Authors
Jorgensen, Michael R.
Advisor
Ewart, Phillip S.
Issue Date
1994
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (D.A.)
Department
School of Music
Other Identifiers
Abstract

This dissertation provides a guide to John Philip Sousa's operetta El Capitan through investigating its historical significance, compositional distinctives, and performance practice. Chapter one introduces the nature and scope of the work by presenting a statement of the problem, the need and significance for the study, and its delimitations.The historical section of this document traces the genesis and process of the actual composition of the work, including identifying pieces borrowed from other Sousa works as well as consideration of Sousa's sketchbooks and other sources for compositional techniques. This section also presents a synopsis and performance history of the operetta, as well as biographies of the composer, lyricist, librettist, and major stage performers.The second part of the dissertation explores Sousa's compositional techniques and how harmonic, melodic and rhythmic considerations advance the plot of the operetta and illuminate character motivation. A comparison is made between the original and published scores for discrepancies.The performance guide includes interviews with key personnel involved in the 1973 Minnesota Opera production of El Capitan. This section closes with an appraisal of the strengths, weaknesses, and potential for successful revival of the work.The appendices provide information on El Capitan in print and recording, the original libretto, copies of programs from significant productions of the operetta, a partial listing of performances of the work between 1970 and 1994, and a description of the roles by voice type. The appendix also includes a transcription of the stage directions found in a stage manager's guide to El Capitan located in the Tams-Witmark collection at the University of Wisconsin.