An Invitation to the Opera, Revised Edition

by John Louis DiGaetani

Overview

In its revised third edition, this volume argues that an appreciation of opera is based on understanding of several key aspects: history, language, theatrical production, the power of the conductor, vocal tradition and standard repertory. This unique approach is intended for the newcomer curious about the art form. The author discusses how opera has changed in the last three decades and how it is now more easily enjoyed than ever before. Originally published in 1986, this book has been translated into four languages and has been used as an "Introduction to Opera" text in college classrooms around the world.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780786495191
Publisher:	McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers
Publication date:	12/22/2015
Edition description:	Revised
Pages:	268
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.70(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

John Louis DiGaetani, professor emeritus of English at Hofstra University, is the author of numerous books about opera and theater.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments vi

Preface 1

Introduction: Why Opera? 3

1 A History of Opera: The Early Years 15

2 A History of Opera: The Modern Period 31

3 The Operatic Voice 51

4 Opera as Theater: The Revolutionaries 61

5 The Current Opera Scene: Production Since World War II 84

6 How the Conductor Controls What We Hear 111

7 The Great Singers: Opera's Vocal Tradition 128

8 The Standard Repertory: The Fifty Most Often Performed Operas 181

Conclusion: An Ancient Art Eternally Renewing Itself 227

A Glossary of Terms 231

Sources 243

For Further Reading: A Bibliography 247

For Further Listening: A Discography 249

For Further Viewing: A Videography 253

Index 255