LIGHT OPERA AND MUSICAL COMEDY

Companion volume to his Opera Synopses -- a handbook for the light opera enthusiast. Starting back in Italy in the 18th century, he goes through the history of light opera of France, Germany, Russia, England, America, up to Gershwin, Kern and the rest. He takes the outstanding examples, title by title; outlines the ""book"" -- quotes from the text. Gilbert and Sullivan have their place. Victor Herbert. The Strausses, father and son. A book primarily for musical libraries and reference shelves.