The Stoned Guest cover

The Stoned Guest

Peter Schickele · 1970

48 min · 6 tracks · opera

An avant-garde opera blending classical structures with absurdist humor and contemporary themes in a uniquely whimsical composition.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Stoned Guest (Part One) — This extended piece sets the tone for the entire opera, showcasing Schickele's intricate blend of humor and musicality while introducing key thematic elements.
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    Intermission Feature: Opera Whiz — This track serves as a humorous interlude that encapsulates Schickele's playful critique of opera itself, highlighting his signature wit and creativity.
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    The Stoned Guest (Completion) — The finale combines various musical styles and vocal arrangements, resolving the narrative arc while exemplifying Schickele's operatic craft and innovative approach.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • whimsical narratives with absurd humor
  • long, immersive theatrical experiences
  • playful interludes that surprise
  • cognitive engagement through clever wit

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1970, The Stoned Guest was Peter Schickele's first full-length opera after gaining recognition for his comedic compositions. This album marked a significant turn in his career, expanding his exploration of operatic forms and satirical storytelling, building on the momentum from his earlier works as P.D.Q. Bach.
Stylistic neighbors
Leonard Bernstein· Igor Stravinsky· Carl Orff

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Introduction 1:14
  • 2 The Stoned Guest (Part One) 23:46
  • 3 Intermission Feature: Opera Whiz 4:25
  • 4 Plot Synopsis 4:01
  • 5 The Stoned Guest (Completion): Ⅺ. Recitative: “I hate to interrupt” / Ⅻ. Quartet: “Don Octave” / XIII. Finale: “O saviour” / Announcement 8:24
  • 6 Two Madrigals from The Triumphs of Thusnelda: “The Queen to me a royal pain doth give” / “My bonnie lass she smelleth” 6:25

What to play next

The Wurst of P. D. Q. Bach
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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata