Even the most famous and frequently performed works, such as Beethoven’s symphonies, contain printing errors. These inaccuracies can include:
A is a specialized document or database maintained by the Major Orchestra Librarians’ Association (MOLA) that identifies and corrects errors in published musical scores and performance parts. These lists are essential tools for orchestra librarians, as they ensure that performances remain faithful to the composer's intentions by resolving inconsistencies before they reach the stage. The Role of MOLA Errata Lists Mola Errata List
: Misprints that can disrupt the harmony or tempo of a piece. Even the most famous and frequently performed works,
: Precise markers including rehearsal figures, measure numbers, and specific beats. The Role of MOLA Errata Lists : Misprints
: Specifying which musician's part needs the update (e.g., 1st Violin, Bassoon II).
: Errors in volume or articulation markings that affect the emotional delivery of the performance.
By using these lists, librarians can save significant rehearsal time—potentially hundreds of hours for complex sets—by making corrections in advance rather than addressing them during expensive ensemble time. Key Features of a MOLA Errata List