King Matthias wandering

Original title: Mátyás király vándorúton
Opera for children in two acts
Libretto: Zsófia Tallér

Duration:
I. Act – approximately 35 min
II. Act – approximately 45 min

King Matthias’ Wandering is a two-act children’s opera and the final completed stage work by Zsófia Tallér. It was premiered on 6 April 2024 at the National Theatre of Pécs. The libretto, written by the composer, is based on two well-known Hungarian folk tales: The Judge of Kolozsvár and King Matthias Goes Stealing. These stories are brought to life with humour and vivid musical characterisation, blending traditional motifs with a fresh and accessible dramatic tone.

King Matthias is a central figure in Hungarian folklore, often portrayed as a wise and just ruler who roams the land in disguise to listen to his people and right wrongs. These tales continue to resonate with young audiences today, offering both entertainment and timeless moral lessons.

The opera pays tribute not only to this legendary king but also to the power of music and storytelling to connect generations.

Roles:

• MÁTYÁS KIRÁLY, king – high baritone
• TIBRILLI, jester – tenor
• HORDÓ, fat monk – baritone
• KÓRÓ, skinny monk – contra-tenor or mezzo-soprano breeches role
• BANDZSA, short knight – bass
• FINDZSA, tall knight – tenor
• BÍRÓ URAM, judge – bass
• BÍRÓ FELESÉGE, judg’es wife – soprano
• FŐMINISZTER, minister – tenor
• FŐMINISZTERNÉ, minister’s wife – mezzo-soprano
• SZÉP CIGÁNYASSZONY, pretty gypsy lady – alto
• BÚS KATONA, PACZOLAY GYÖRGY, sad soldier – high tenor
• KAR, NÉP, KATONÁK, choir, people, soldiers – Puppeteers
• KÉT HAJDÚ, JANCSI GYEREK, ÁRUSOK, 2 mercenary soldiers, Little John, merchants – Soloist form the group of puppeteers
• KOCSMÁROS, innkeeper – non-singing role

Arrangement (Chamber orchestra):

• 1 Flute
• 1 Oboe
• 1 Clarinet in B flat
• 1 Bassoon
• 2 Horns in F
• 1 Percussionist (Triangulum, Toms, Tambourin)
• Strings (2, 2, 3, 2, 1)

Performances at Pécsi Nemzeti Színház.

The sheet music is not yet available for public distribution.