Great Singers, First Series Faustina Bordoni To Henrietta Sontag By: George T. Ferris (1840-)
George T. Ferris presents an impeccable compilation of biographies in his book Great Singers, First Series Faustina Bordoni To Henrietta Sontag. Ferris’s extensive research and captivating storytelling skills make this book a must-read for anyone interested in opera and the lives of remarkable singers. The book opens with a comprehensive exploration of the life and career of Faustina Bordoni, a famous Italian mezzo-soprano of the eighteenth century. Ferris delves deep into Bordoni’s early life, highlighting her struggles, triumphs, and pivotal moments that shaped her into a renowned opera singer. The author's attention to detail shines through, providing readers with a vivid and intimate portrait of Bordoni’s life, both on and off the stage. The subsequent chapters focus on other influential singers, such as Maria Felicita Malibran, Giuseppina Grassini, and Angelica Catalani, offering a diverse representation of female vocal powerhouses across different periods. Ferris adeptly brings each singer to life, guiding readers through their rise to fame, personal challenges, and artistic contributions. His writing style seamlessly incorporates anecdotes, historical context, and critical analysis, making the narratives cohesive, informative, and engaging. What sets this book apart is the author's ability to contextualize the singers within the broader historical, cultural, and musical landscapes. Ferris skillfully brings to life the social dynamics, rivalries, and collaborations that shaped the careers of these exceptional women. By weaving in snippets of their performances and the public's reaction, he effectively captures the essence of their artistry, allowing readers to gain a deeper appreciation for their contributions to opera. Ferris’s passion for the subject matter shines through his eloquent prose. His enthusiasm, combined with his scholarly approach, makes the book accessible to both opera aficionados and newcomers alike. Additionally, the inclusion of rare photographs and illustrations adds another layer of visual appeal, complementing the rich narratives and providing insight into the singers' physicalities and stage presence. While the book predominantly focuses on the lives of female singers, it provides glimpses into the broader world of opera during each singer's respective era. Ferris emphasizes the evolving nature of the art form, touching upon changes in vocal technique, performance styles, and societal expectations. In doing so, he captures the essence of the era, making this book a valuable resource for music historians and opera enthusiasts. Great Singers, First Series Faustina Bordoni To Henrietta Sontag is an outstanding contribution to the field of opera literature. George T. Ferris’s meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and comprehensive understanding of the subject matter make for an exceptional reading experience. This book is a testament to the power and influence of exceptional singers throughout history, and it is sure to captivate and enlighten readers interested in the lives and artistry of these remarkable women. First Page: GREAT SINGERS FAUSTINA BORDONI TO HENRIETTA SONTAG FIRST SERIES BY GEORGE T. FERRIS 1891 Copyright, 1879, By D. APPLETON AND COMPANY. NOTE. In compiling and arranging the material which enters into the following sketches of distinguished singers, it is only honest to disclaim any originality except such as may be involved in a picturesque presentation of facts. The compiler has drawn freely from a great variety of sources, and has been simply guided by the desire to give the reading public such a digest of the more important incidents in the careers of the celebrities treated of as should be at once compact, racy, and accurate. To serve this purpose the opinions and descriptions of writers and critics contemporary with the subjects have been used at length, and no means overlooked to give the sketches that atmosphere of freshness which is the outcome of personal observation. All that a compilation of this kind can hope to effect is best gained in preserving this kind of vividness, instead of revamping impressions and opinions into second hand forms. Pains have been taken to verify dates and facts, and it is believed they will be found trustworthy. It will be observed that many well known singers have been omitted, or treated only incidentally: among the earlier singers, such as Anas tasia Robinson, Mingotti, Anna Maria Crouch, and Anna Selina Storace; among more recent ones, such as Mmes... Continue reading book >>

Great Singers, First Series Faustina Bordoni To Henrietta Sontag By: George T. Ferris (1840-)

George T. Ferris presents an impeccable compilation of biographies in his book Great Singers, First Series Faustina Bordoni To Henrietta Sontag. Ferris’s extensive research and captivating storytelling skills make this book a must-read for anyone interested in opera and the lives of remarkable singers.

The book opens with a comprehensive exploration of the life and career of Faustina Bordoni, a famous Italian mezzo-soprano of the eighteenth century. Ferris delves deep into Bordoni’s early life, highlighting her struggles, triumphs, and pivotal moments that shaped her into a renowned opera singer. The author's attention to detail shines through, providing readers with a vivid and intimate portrait of Bordoni’s life, both on and off the stage.

The subsequent chapters focus on other influential singers, such as Maria Felicita Malibran, Giuseppina Grassini, and Angelica Catalani, offering a diverse representation of female vocal powerhouses across different periods. Ferris adeptly brings each singer to life, guiding readers through their rise to fame, personal challenges, and artistic contributions. His writing style seamlessly incorporates anecdotes, historical context, and critical analysis, making the narratives cohesive, informative, and engaging.

What sets this book apart is the author's ability to contextualize the singers within the broader historical, cultural, and musical landscapes. Ferris skillfully brings to life the social dynamics, rivalries, and collaborations that shaped the careers of these exceptional women. By weaving in snippets of their performances and the public's reaction, he effectively captures the essence of their artistry, allowing readers to gain a deeper appreciation for their contributions to opera.

Ferris’s passion for the subject matter shines through his eloquent prose. His enthusiasm, combined with his scholarly approach, makes the book accessible to both opera aficionados and newcomers alike. Additionally, the inclusion of rare photographs and illustrations adds another layer of visual appeal, complementing the rich narratives and providing insight into the singers' physicalities and stage presence.

While the book predominantly focuses on the lives of female singers, it provides glimpses into the broader world of opera during each singer's respective era. Ferris emphasizes the evolving nature of the art form, touching upon changes in vocal technique, performance styles, and societal expectations. In doing so, he captures the essence of the era, making this book a valuable resource for music historians and opera enthusiasts.

Great Singers, First Series Faustina Bordoni To Henrietta Sontag is an outstanding contribution to the field of opera literature. George T. Ferris’s meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and comprehensive understanding of the subject matter make for an exceptional reading experience. This book is a testament to the power and influence of exceptional singers throughout history, and it is sure to captivate and enlighten readers interested in the lives and artistry of these remarkable women.

First Page:

GREAT SINGERS

FAUSTINA BORDONI TO HENRIETTA SONTAG

FIRST SERIES

GEORGE T. FERRIS

1891

NOTE.

In compiling and arranging the material which enters into the following sketches of distinguished singers, it is only honest to disclaim any originality except such as may be involved in a picturesque presentation of facts. The compiler has drawn freely from a great variety of sources, and has been simply guided by the desire to give the reading public such a digest of the more important incidents in the careers of the celebrities treated of as should be at once compact, racy, and accurate. To serve this purpose the opinions and descriptions of writers and critics contemporary with the subjects have been used at length, and no means overlooked to give the sketches that atmosphere of freshness which is the outcome of personal observation. All that a compilation of this kind can hope to effect is best gained in preserving this kind of vividness, instead of revamping impressions and opinions into second hand forms. Pains have been taken to verify dates and facts, and it is believed they will be found trustworthy.

It will be observed that many well known singers have been omitted, or treated only incidentally: among the earlier singers, such as Anas tasia Robinson, Mingotti, Anna Maria Crouch, and Anna Selina Storace; among more recent ones, such as Mmes... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Biography
Music

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