The purpose of this paper is to document the results of the research required to conscientiously prepare a performance of The Diary of One Who Vanished, by Leos Janacek. Too often, vocalists and instrumentalists alike find themselves in a performance not knowing the bare essentials needed to produce an acceptable performance. Research is necessary in the following areas: life history of the composer as well as historical and political conditions of his surroundings, compositional style of the composer and specific tools which he used in the composition of the music to be performed and, if the composition is vocal, a thorough investigation of the text. Only after a complete study in these areas can a performance of any music be intelligently given.