The incidental music Erich Korngold wrote for Much Ado About Nothing is outstanding: witty, atmospheric, dramatic, colourful. When you consider that he was only 23 years old when he wrote this music, it's an astounding accomplishment. This is the first recording of a fully-staged production of (portions of) the play with Korngold's music, and it's completely convincing, a worthwhile project that makes for a very entertaining CD.
The surprisingly accomplished actors and musicians from UNC's School of the Arts provide strong support in aid of the artistic vision of John Mauceri. This undertaking is obviously close to Mauceri's heart, considering the research he undertook into the original 1920 production, and the care he took in translating the music to a modern staged production. This exciting CD justifies that care and commitment.
I'm hoping that the new Joss Whedon film of Much Ado About Nothing brings a new generation to a love and understanding of a Shakespeare play that isn't always as appreciated as it should be. I know this Korngold disc will do the same, if in considerably smaller numbers.
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