A Book of Operas Their Histories, Their Plots, and Their Music By: Henry Edward Krehbiel (1854-1923)
"A Book of Operas" by Henry Edward Krehbiel is a comprehensive and illuminating exploration of the wide array of operatic masterpieces from around the world. With a deep understanding of music and a keen passion for the subject, Krehbiel delves into the intricate histories, captivating plots, and enchanting music that define each opera. One of the most commendable aspects of this book is Krehbiel's ability to bring the operas to life through vivid descriptions and insightful analysis. From the grandeur of Wagner's epic works to the melodic beauty of Verdi's compositions, the author effortlessly transports readers into the heart of each opera. His descriptive prowess allows even those unfamiliar with the genre to appreciate and understand the complex nuances of the music. Furthermore, Krehbiel's attention to detail is impeccable. He meticulously explores the historical contexts and narrative developments of each opera, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of their cultural significance. The inclusion of musical examples and references further enhances the reading experience, enabling readers to truly grasp the essence of each composer's genius. Moreover, Krehbiel's writing style is both engaging and accessible. Despite the complexity of the subject matter, he manages to present the information in a clear and concise manner. By striking a delicate balance between academic rigor and reader-friendly prose, he ensures that this book appeals to both opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike. However, it must be noted that "A Book of Operas" primarily focuses on Western operatic traditions, with relatively little coverage of non-Western operas. While the author does acknowledge the limitations of his scope, it would have been enriching to see a more substantial exploration of operas from other cultures, to offer a more inclusive perspective. In conclusion, "A Book of Operas" is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the world of opera. Krehbiel's extensive knowledge, insightful analysis, and captivating storytelling make this book an invaluable resource for both scholars and enthusiasts. Whether you are an aspiring musician, an opera aficionado, or simply curious about this timeless art form, this book is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and power of opera. First Page: A BOOK OF OPERAS THEIR HISTORIES, THEIR PLOTS, AND THEIR MUSIC BY HENRY EDWARD KREHBIEL TO LUGIEN WULSIN AN OLD FRIEND "Old friends are best." SELDEN. "I love everything that's old, old friends, old times, old manners, old books, old wine." GOLDSMITH. "Old wood to burn! Old wine to drink! Old friends to trust! Old authors to read!" MELCHIOR. CONTENTS Chapter I "Il Barbiere di Siviglia" First performance of Italian opera in the United States Production of Rossini's opera in Rome, London, Paris, and New York Thomas Phillipps and his English version Miss Leesugg and Mrs. Holman Emanuel Garcia and his troupe Malibran Early operas in America Colman's "Spanish Barber" Other Figaro operas How Rossini came to Write "Il Barbiere" The story of a fiasco Garcia and his Spanish song "Segui, o caro" Giorgi Righetti The plot of the opera The overture "Ecco ridente in cielo" "Una voce poco fà," Rossini and Patti The lesson scene and what singers have done with it Grisi, Alboni, Catalani, Bosio, Gassier, Patti, Sembrich, Melba, and Viardot An echo of Haydn. Chapter II "Le Nozze di Figaro" Beaumarchais and his Figaro comedies "Le Nozze" a sequel to "Il Barbiere" Mozart and Rossini Their operas compared Opposition to Beaumarchais's "Marriage de Figaro" Moral grossness of Mozart's opera A relic of feudalism Humor of the horns A merry overture The story of the opera Cherubino, "Non so più cosa son" Benucci and the air "Non più andrai" "Voi che sapete" A marvellous finale The song to the zephyr A Spanish fandango "Deh vieni non tardar... Continue reading book >>

A Book of Operas Their Histories, Their Plots, and Their Music By: Henry Edward Krehbiel (1854-1923)

"A Book of Operas" by Henry Edward Krehbiel is a comprehensive and illuminating exploration of the wide array of operatic masterpieces from around the world. With a deep understanding of music and a keen passion for the subject, Krehbiel delves into the intricate histories, captivating plots, and enchanting music that define each opera.

One of the most commendable aspects of this book is Krehbiel's ability to bring the operas to life through vivid descriptions and insightful analysis. From the grandeur of Wagner's epic works to the melodic beauty of Verdi's compositions, the author effortlessly transports readers into the heart of each opera. His descriptive prowess allows even those unfamiliar with the genre to appreciate and understand the complex nuances of the music.

Furthermore, Krehbiel's attention to detail is impeccable. He meticulously explores the historical contexts and narrative developments of each opera, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of their cultural significance. The inclusion of musical examples and references further enhances the reading experience, enabling readers to truly grasp the essence of each composer's genius.

Moreover, Krehbiel's writing style is both engaging and accessible. Despite the complexity of the subject matter, he manages to present the information in a clear and concise manner. By striking a delicate balance between academic rigor and reader-friendly prose, he ensures that this book appeals to both opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

However, it must be noted that "A Book of Operas" primarily focuses on Western operatic traditions, with relatively little coverage of non-Western operas. While the author does acknowledge the limitations of his scope, it would have been enriching to see a more substantial exploration of operas from other cultures, to offer a more inclusive perspective.

In conclusion, "A Book of Operas" is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the world of opera. Krehbiel's extensive knowledge, insightful analysis, and captivating storytelling make this book an invaluable resource for both scholars and enthusiasts. Whether you are an aspiring musician, an opera aficionado, or simply curious about this timeless art form, this book is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and power of opera.

First Page:

A BOOK OF OPERAS

THEIR HISTORIES, THEIR PLOTS, AND THEIR MUSIC

BY HENRY EDWARD KREHBIEL

LUGIEN WULSIN

AN OLD FRIEND

"Old friends are best." SELDEN.

"I love everything that's old, old friends, old times, old manners, old books, old wine." GOLDSMITH.

"Old wood to burn! Old wine to drink! Old friends to trust! Old authors to read!" MELCHIOR.

CONTENTS

Chapter I "Il Barbiere di Siviglia"

First performance of Italian opera in the United States Production of Rossini's opera in Rome, London, Paris, and New York Thomas Phillipps and his English version Miss Leesugg and Mrs. Holman Emanuel Garcia and his troupe Malibran Early operas in America Colman's "Spanish Barber" Other Figaro operas How Rossini came to Write "Il Barbiere" The story of a fiasco Garcia and his Spanish song "Segui, o caro" Giorgi Righetti The plot of the opera The overture "Ecco ridente in cielo" "Una voce poco fà," Rossini and Patti The lesson scene and what singers have done with it Grisi, Alboni, Catalani, Bosio, Gassier, Patti, Sembrich, Melba, and Viardot An echo of Haydn.

Chapter II "Le Nozze di Figaro"

Beaumarchais and his Figaro comedies "Le Nozze" a sequel to "Il Barbiere" Mozart and Rossini Their operas compared Opposition to Beaumarchais's "Marriage de Figaro" Moral grossness of Mozart's opera A relic of feudalism Humor of the horns A merry overture The story of the opera Cherubino, "Non so più cosa son" Benucci and the air "Non più andrai" "Voi che sapete" A marvellous finale The song to the zephyr A Spanish fandango "Deh vieni non tardar... Continue reading book >>

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