For his only opera "Leonore / Fidelio", Beethoven wrote a total of four overtures. The so-called overture of Leonore n ° 1 is chronologically the third in the series, and was conceived in 1806-1807 for a representation of "Leonore" in Prague which did not take place. It prevailed for a long time, but wrongly, like the predecessor, sidelined, from the Opening of Leonore No. 2, which did great harm to its reception. It is therefore useful to take a look without preconceived ideas on this opening, clearly shorter than the numbers 2 and 3, which in its more lyrical than dramatic character, however holds its place well by presenting a new lighting in the combat of Beethoven with the search for the ideal opening piece for his scenic work. It is published here today in a study edition on the basis of the musical text of the complete edition of Beethoven's works, with a new preface.
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