Watch A Composer's Notes: Philip Glass and the Making of an Opera

A Composer's Notes: Philip Glass and the Making of an Opera is a documentary film that takes the audience on a journey through the creation of Philip Glass's opera, The Making of the Representative for Planet 8. The film was released in 1986 and was directed by Michael Blackwood. The documentary provides a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and the collaboration between Glass, the composer, and the director, the librettist, and the performers. It is a captivating exploration of the artistic journey that an opera takes from conception to performance, and the meticulous attention to detail required to create a masterpiece.

The film opens with Glass discussing his inspiration for the opera and the unique approach he took in creating the score. He explains his desire to break away from the traditional conventions of opera and create a distinct sound and style that reflects his minimalist approach to music. Glass's composing process is documented, from his initial sketches and ideas to the final polished score. The audience is given an insight into the struggle and experimentation that goes into creating a new masterpiece.

The director, Robert Wilson, is also given a significant amount of screen time, and his unique perspective on the opera is explored. Wilson's process is to take a more visual approach to the creation of his productions. He creates a story outline, a sort of storyboard, that he uses to develop the set design and costumes. His vision of The Making of the Representative for Planet 8 was to create a visually stunning work of art that was both atmospheric and symbolic.

The librettist, Constance DeJong, and the conductor, John DeMain, also play significant roles in the documentary. DeJong offers insights into the themes and message of the opera, while DeMain explains the challenges of conducting such a complex and unconventional score.

The film offers a rare glimpse into the rehearsal process and the challenges faced by the performers. The singers, actors, and dancers who will bring Glass's opera to life are interviewed, and we hear their thoughts and opinions on the work in progress. They discuss everything from the complexities of the score to the physical demands of the performance.

The documentary concludes with the world premiere of The Making of the Representative for Planet 8. The excitement and tension of the opening night are palpable, and the camera captures the reactions of the performers and the audience. The film ends on a high note, with the realization of the final product and the achievement of a great creative vision.

Overall, A Composer's Notes: Philip Glass and the Making of an Opera is a fascinating documentary that offers a unique insight into the creative process. The film is engaging and informative, taking the audience on a journey through the creation of a new work of art. It is a must-see for any lover of opera or classical music, and it is an excellent resource for anyone interested in the creative process.

A Composer's Notes: Philip Glass and the Making of an Opera is a 1986 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.