This critical edition of Janáček’s best-known orchestral composition, the “Sinfonietta”, is an updated version of the edition published by Universal Edition in 2017. It has been expanded by an English-language Critical Commentary, and new findings have been incorporated into both the textual and musical sections of the volume.

The volume provides an in-depth examination of this late work by Janáček. The Foreword discusses the circumstances surrounding the composition of the piece, as well as its premiere on 26 June 1926 in the Smetana Hall of the Municipal House, performed by the Czech Philharmonic under Václav Talich, who exerted a significant influence on the final form of the score. It also addresses issues related to the publication of the work and the changes made to its title.

The edition is based primarily on the version performed at the premiere—that is, on an authorized copy of the score and on the parts prepared by Václav Sedláček. Additional sources were also consulted, including the autograph manuscript and early sketches, the first editions in which Janáček was actively involved, as well as letters from the composer containing his corrections and specific instructions.