The Picture of Dorian Gray Op.45 (1995)

Opera in two acts

3 d1.2+1.2+1.2+1./4.3.3.0./ Timp. Perc (2). Hp. Cel./ Strings/ vocal soloists

(reduced orchestration available)

c. 180'00"

Commissioned by L'Opera de Monte-Carlo

First performanced on May,8th 1996 at the Salle Garnier at L'Opera de Monte-Carlo, Monte-Carlo, Monaco

Dedicated to H.S.H. Princess Caroline of Monaco

Published by Theodore Presser Company | libretto # 417-71032 | pno/voc. score #411-41101

Reviews:
"Musically and dramatically, Mr. Liebermann's work is effective; as a first opera, it is remarkable. Mr. Liebermann's handling of the orchestra is masterly, summoning great power at times without in most cases swamping the voices. And his setting of English was natural enough to carry at least to one choice seat with little need for the supertitles."

James R. Oestreich, The New York Times

"The Picture of Dorian Gray is an astonishing operatic debut. Like Britten, whose first opera was "Peter Grimes," Mr. Liebermann has burst forth fully formed as a theatrical composer. In the end the drama is so compelling and the structure so taut that the question of influence pales in significance. The libretto, which Mr. Liebermann produced himself, leans heavily on the vividly theatrical dialogue of Wilde's novel. The 12 scenes are clearly defined, each focusing on a single dramatic event. And Mr. Liebermann has an intuitive sense of pacing that enables him to build inexorably to the shattering climax."

K. Robert Schwarz, The New York Times

"...the 90's have seen a considerable number of high-profile premieres, ...but to date, only one, Lowell Liebermann's The Picture of Dorian Gray, has been both musically distinguished and dramatically effective."

Terry Teachout, Commentary