T.W. Owens: The Rapture of Beta Lyrae
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- Composer: Terry Winter Owens (1936-2007)
- Instrumentation: Piano
- Work: The Rapture of Beta Lyrae (1998)
- ISMN:
- Size: 8.9 x 12.0 inches
Description
The astronomer William Herschel coined the term "binary star" in 1802 and described it as "the union of two stars, that are formed together in one system, by the laws of attraction."
Joined in a mysterious cosmic dance, Beta Lyrae is one of the strangest of the eclipsing binary star systems. The primary star, classified as a giant, has perhaps twice the mass of our Sun. The secondary star is largely invisible even though it is far, far more massive, with perhaps 12 times the mass of our Sun. A thick, opaque torus of matter orbiting around it and spiral into it largely conceals it from direct observation. The two stars engage in a continuous exchange of matter, the smaller relinquishing its mass to the larger through a spiral train.
One feels that the harmonic interactions of related tones and overtones can be experienced in oneself as a rapturous microcosmic representation of the phenomenon of binary stars and, at the same time, as the ecstasy of lovers.
Publishers use a lot of words to describe what they sell, and we know it can be confusing. We've tried to be as clear as possible to make sure you get exactly what you are looking for. Below are descriptions of the terms that we use to describe the various formats that music often comes in.
Choral Score
A score for vocalists that only contains the vocal lines. The instrumental parts are not there for reference. Generally, cheaper than a vocal score and requires multiple copies for purchase.
Facsimile
Reproductions of the original hand-written scores from the composer.
Full Score
For ensemble music, this indicates that the edition contains all parts on a single system (there are not separate parts for each player). In larger ensembles, this is for the conductor.
Hardcover
Hardbound. Generally either linen-covered or half-leather.
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Paperback
When publishers offer multiple bindings (e.g. hardcover) or study scores, this is the "standard" version. If you're planning to play the music, this is probably what you want.
Performance / Playing Score
A score of the music containing all parts on one system, intended for players to share. There are not separate parts for each player.
Set of Parts
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Solo Part with Piano Reduction
For solo pieces with orchestra, this is a version that contains a piano reduction of the orchestra parts. For piano pieces, two copies are typically needed for performance.
Study Score
A small (think choral size) copy of the complete score meant for studying, and not playing. They make great add-ons when learning concertos and small chamber works.
Vocal Score
A score prepared for vocalists that includes the piano/organ part or a reduction of the instrumental parts.
Wind Set
For orchestral music, this is a collection of wind and percussion parts. The specific quantities of each instrument are notated.
With Audio
In addition to the printed music, the edition contains recordings of the pieces. This may be an included CD, or access to files on the internet.
With / Without Fingering (Markings)
Some publishers prepare two copies - a pure Urtext edition that includes no fingering (or bowing) suggestions and a lightly edited version that includes a minimal number of editorial markings.
T.W. Owens: The Rapture of Beta Lyrae
