Description
In a note accompanying the anticipated first edition of his Hungarian Peasant Songs in 1914, Bartók stated that “the melodies presented here are folksongs in the truest sense of the word; more specifically, peasant songs.” However, he initially chose to withhold this work from publication, subsequently incorporating additional pieces that he had gathered from folk music during that period. The first edition was ultimately released in 1920. László Somfai, a noted Bartók scholar, elucidates the intricate development of this work in his preface. The remarks at the conclusion of this edition provide significant insights into performance practices, informed by the two recordings the composer made of several pieces in 1927 and 1936. The musical text presented here aligns with the corresponding volume of the Bartók Complete Edition, which is currently under preparation. This edition represents yet another highly esteemed work by Bartók available from G. Henle Publishers.
