The Story of Opera

James Parakilas
eISBN-13: 9780393903775

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Four centuries of opera through the stories they tell.


The Story of Opera explores the centuries-old tradition in which the emotional power of music is linked to the human issues that can be enacted as stories. The first part, “Going to the Opera,” introduces newcomers to every element of the operatic experience—venues, seating arrangements, dress and costumes, stage effects, orchestra, singers, and dancers—describing how each began and changed over the years, and how they have all combined to enthrall audiences for four centuries. The remaining parts explore operatic repertory from the 17th century to the present, providing insightful readings of plots, particular scenes, staging, and music.

Sold By W. W. Norton & Company
ISBNs 039390377X, 9780393903775, 9780393935554, 0393935558, 9780393685084
Language eng
Number of Pages 529