The Operatic Problem By: William Johnson Galloway
Author William Johnson Galloway tackles a fascinating and often overlooked topic in his book, The Operatic Problem. With a blend of historical analysis, musical expertise, and cultural examination, Galloway delves into the challenges faced by opera as an art form in today's society. The book's strength lies in Galloway's meticulous research, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of opera's historical context. From the origins of opera in the 17th century to its evolution through different periods and styles, Galloway's exploration is both thorough and engaging. He skillfully weaves together anecdotes, musical analyses, and biographical sketches of prominent composers and performers, offering a well-rounded perspective on the evolution of opera. One of the book's most thought-provoking aspects is Galloway's exploration of the "operatic problem" itself. He argues that while opera possesses the potential to be a powerful and emotionally immersive art form, it often struggles to connect with modern audiences. Galloway attributes this struggle to various factors, ranging from the opera's elitist perception to the inherent challenges of combining multiple art forms into one cohesive production. Despite the complexity of the topic, Galloway manages to present his ideas in a clear and accessible manner. His explanations of musical concepts and techniques are approachable even for readers unfamiliar with classical music, making the book a valuable resource for both opera enthusiasts and those seeking an introduction to the art form. Moreover, Galloway does not limit his analysis to the history of opera alone. He also examines the social, political, and cultural aspects that influence opera's reception, shedding light on the intricate relationships between the art form and the societies in which it thrives. By exploring topics such as gender, identity, and nationalism, Galloway highlights the relevance of opera beyond its musical and theatrical dimensions. While Galloway's book provides a comprehensive examination of the operatic problem, some readers might find the text overly dense and academic at times. The inclusion of more personal anecdotes or contemporary examples could have enhanced the accessibility and relevance of the book for a broader audience. Nevertheless, The Operatic Problem remains a valuable contribution to the field of opera studies. Galloway's thorough research, combined with his insightful analysis and engaging writing style, make this book a must-read for anyone interested in opera's past, present, and future. It not only deepens our understanding of opera as an art form but also invites us to reflect on the challenges it faces and the possible paths towards its revitalization. First Page: THE OPERATIC PROBLEM By W. JOHNSON GALLOWAY, M.P. [Illustration] London John Long 6 Chandos Street, Strand 1902 Preface Last autumn, having to speak at an organ recital given by my friend Mr Clegg, I took the opportunity of giving what encouragement lay in my power, to the Corporation of my native town, in an endeavour they had made during the summer months to provide suitable music in the various parks throughout the city. To my great surprise that speech was quoted in journals, of all shades of opinion, in the country, and brought me also a vast correspondence. A copy of the speech will be found at the end of this book. As I have long desired that Opera should be placed within the reach of those, whose purses are not able to bear the strain of the high prices charged in England, and having some leisure before Parliament met this year, I made inquiries regarding the various systems of running Opera on the Continent of Europe. I obtained a vast mass of most interesting information. How to make the best use of that information was my difficulty. It was much too bulky to compress into the narrow limits of a magazine article, and besides, much of it had no peculiar interest for us in this country. My chief desire was to put it before the public in a form that would arouse interest in the subject... Continue reading book >>

The Operatic Problem By: William Johnson Galloway

Author William Johnson Galloway tackles a fascinating and often overlooked topic in his book, The Operatic Problem. With a blend of historical analysis, musical expertise, and cultural examination, Galloway delves into the challenges faced by opera as an art form in today's society.

The book's strength lies in Galloway's meticulous research, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of opera's historical context. From the origins of opera in the 17th century to its evolution through different periods and styles, Galloway's exploration is both thorough and engaging. He skillfully weaves together anecdotes, musical analyses, and biographical sketches of prominent composers and performers, offering a well-rounded perspective on the evolution of opera.

One of the book's most thought-provoking aspects is Galloway's exploration of the "operatic problem" itself. He argues that while opera possesses the potential to be a powerful and emotionally immersive art form, it often struggles to connect with modern audiences. Galloway attributes this struggle to various factors, ranging from the opera's elitist perception to the inherent challenges of combining multiple art forms into one cohesive production.

Despite the complexity of the topic, Galloway manages to present his ideas in a clear and accessible manner. His explanations of musical concepts and techniques are approachable even for readers unfamiliar with classical music, making the book a valuable resource for both opera enthusiasts and those seeking an introduction to the art form.

Moreover, Galloway does not limit his analysis to the history of opera alone. He also examines the social, political, and cultural aspects that influence opera's reception, shedding light on the intricate relationships between the art form and the societies in which it thrives. By exploring topics such as gender, identity, and nationalism, Galloway highlights the relevance of opera beyond its musical and theatrical dimensions.

While Galloway's book provides a comprehensive examination of the operatic problem, some readers might find the text overly dense and academic at times. The inclusion of more personal anecdotes or contemporary examples could have enhanced the accessibility and relevance of the book for a broader audience.

Nevertheless, The Operatic Problem remains a valuable contribution to the field of opera studies. Galloway's thorough research, combined with his insightful analysis and engaging writing style, make this book a must-read for anyone interested in opera's past, present, and future. It not only deepens our understanding of opera as an art form but also invites us to reflect on the challenges it faces and the possible paths towards its revitalization.

First Page:

THE OPERATIC PROBLEM

W. JOHNSON GALLOWAY, M.P.

[Illustration]

London John Long 6 Chandos Street, Strand 1902

Preface

Last autumn, having to speak at an organ recital given by my friend Mr Clegg, I took the opportunity of giving what encouragement lay in my power, to the Corporation of my native town, in an endeavour they had made during the summer months to provide suitable music in the various parks throughout the city. To my great surprise that speech was quoted in journals, of all shades of opinion, in the country, and brought me also a vast correspondence.

A copy of the speech will be found at the end of this book.

As I have long desired that Opera should be placed within the reach of those, whose purses are not able to bear the strain of the high prices charged in England, and having some leisure before Parliament met this year, I made inquiries regarding the various systems of running Opera on the Continent of Europe. I obtained a vast mass of most interesting information. How to make the best use of that information was my difficulty. It was much too bulky to compress into the narrow limits of a magazine article, and besides, much of it had no peculiar interest for us in this country.

My chief desire was to put it before the public in a form that would arouse interest in the subject... Continue reading book >>

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