THE OPERA READER

by Louis-Ed. Biancolli ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 28, 1953

Mr. Biancolli begins his synthesis of more specialized opera books for a grand scene of the operatic milieu with graceful bows to his colleagues. He then draws from them to provide a history of opera up to the nineteenth century and embarks upon the discussion of ninety operas by thirty-nine composers. His formula is one of seven steps:- the composer and his dates; the composer's biography; facts of title, acts, book of the opera with the date and place first performed; names of characters and voices with scene of action; synopsis of opera; background behind-the-scenes essay on the composing of the work; the American premiere and first Met performance with names of the singers and so on. The background essays will probably be the most interesting bit of the book; the whole is good family fare.

Pub Date: Oct. 28, 1953

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: McGraw-Hill

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 1953

Categories: NONFICTION