The orchestral score requires 1 flute, 2 oboes, 3 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 2 horns, 1 trumpet, 1 trombone, timpani, percussion (various instruments), piano and strings (6 violins I, 6 violins II, 4 violas, 3 violoncellos, 2 double basses). Apart from the vocal soloists, a small chorus (or a vocal quartet or quintet) is also required.
| Librettist | Bohuslav Martinů (Based on the story by Leo Tolstoy) |
| Date of composition | 1952 (1951-1952) in New York, NY, United States |
| Premiered | 1954, July 31st in Interlochen, MI, United States |
| Type | Pastoral Opera |
| Catalogue | H 336 |
| Spoken language | English |
| Instruments |
Voice (Baritone)
- Martin Avdeitch, a cobbler
Voice (Bass) - An old peasant pilgrim Voice (Bass) - Stepanitch, an old soldier Voice (Soprano) - A woman with a child Voice (Contralto) - An old woman Narrator, Recitant, Speaker - A boy Voice (Tenor) - Speaker (narrator) |
| Autotranslations beta |
Bohuslav Martinů: What Men Live By, H 336 Bohuslav Martinů: What Men Live By, H 336 Bohuslav Martinů: What Men Live By, H 336 |