JAVS Fall 2011

Final Remarks

ately suggested that F major would be the choice in a version for viola. however, the resonance of the instrument was significantly diminished in the trans position process; G major proved a happy compro mise, with the bonus that more open strings could be used to facilitate the many rapid shifts involved, and occasional natural harmonics could be used. Example 6a shows the first eight bars of the piano reduction in the original key of C, while example 6b shows the equivalent section in the transcription. I also looked for clues as to how Borisovsky adapted multi-layered melodies to help with the adaptation of the second part of this extract, which begins with lamenting strings and gradually develops into three-part counter point. After extensive experimentation, the most satisfac tory solution involved the viola part “changing roles” occasionally and attempting to weave the lines between the two instruments, using the full score and piano reduction as equal guides. It is humbling to think how much longer some of the transposition process must have taken without having notation software to assist!

Prokofiev once remarked: “In my view, the compos er, just as the poet, the sculptor or the painter, is in duty bound to serve Man, the people.” 5 Romeo and Juliet , like all of Prokofiev’s music, exhibits a strong adherence to two of his beliefs: clarity in expressing ideas and a succinctness in musical style. As violists, we can be very grateful that Vadim Borisovsky took such trouble to allow us, and our audiences, to be moved by this music of genius. Published Editions of Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet Transcribed for Viola and Piano by Borisovsky (note that most editions use the spelling Borisovsky and occasionally Borisovski): Prokofiev, Sergei. Four Selected Pieces from the Ballet Romeo and Juliet . hamburg: Sikorski, 2005, SIK6912/hL50485653, ISBN 0634084976. Includes: Minuet - Arrival of the Guests, Balcony Scene, Romeo and Juliet Meet Father Lorenzo [ Romeo

J OuRNAL OF ThE AMERICAN VIOLA SOCIETy 38