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Opera Books
Best books
Romain Rolland
Musiciens d'autrefois
"Musiciens d'autrefois" by Romain Rolland is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the history and significance of music, particularly focusing on opera and its evolution throughout different eras. The text is likely to appeal to those interested in music history, arts, and cultural analysis. At the start of "Musiciens d'autrefois," the author introduces the pivotal role music plays in the broader tapestry of history and culture. Rolland emphasizes the often-overlooked depth of musical history, positioning music as a vital expression of the human spirit that reflects societal values, emotions, and transformations. He critiques the historical narrative that has sidelined music in favor of more tangible arts, while establishing a connection between music and other art forms, highlighting how they influence one another. Rolland's examination urges readers to appreciate the intricate relationships between music, literature, and societal changes, setting the stage for a more thorough exploration of opera and its predecessors in subsequent chapters.
Bernard Shaw
The Perfect Wagnerite: A Commentary on the Niblung's Ring
"The Perfect Wagnerite: A Commentary on the Niblung's Ring" by Bernard Shaw is a philosophical commentary published in 1898. Shaw offers a radical reinterpretation of Wagner's Ring cycle, reading it as a Marxist allegory about capitalism's collapse rather than a simple fairy tale. He argues the work depicts "the whole tragedy of human history" and contemporary dilemmas, accessible only to those with wider consciousness beyond domestic concerns and conventional thinking. Shaw also traces Wagner's shift from music drama back toward traditional opera.
H. Sutherland (Henry Sutherland) Edwards
History of the Opera from its Origin in Italy to the present Time With Anecdotes of the Most Celebrated Composers and Vocalists of Europe
"History of the Opera from its Origin in Italy to the Present Time" by Sutherland Edwards is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This work explores the development of opera, tracing its roots from early Italian productions to its influences and adaptations across Europe, particularly in Germany, France, and England. The book not only discusses the evolution of the art form but also includes anecdotes about notable composers and vocalists who shaped its history. The opening of the book introduces opera as a complex art form that combines music, poetry, and visual spectacle. Edwards addresses the origins of opera in Italy, highlighting its development from sacred musical plays and the significance of the early works such as "Dafne" and "Euridice." Through detailed historical context, he illuminates how opera's appeal was influenced by advancements in scenic design and orchestration, detailing various composers' contributions to the genre's evolution. The initial chapters set the stage for a rich exploration of how this unique form of entertainment became ingrained in European culture, reflecting the concurrent artistic movements of the time.
George Ainslie Hight
Wagner's "Tristan und Isolde": An Essay on the Wagnerian Drama
"Wagner's 'Tristan und Isolde': An Essay on the Wagnerian Drama" by George Ainslie Hight is a critical examination of Richard Wagner's dramatic works, likely written in the early 20th century. This essay serves as a primer for newcomers interested in Wagner's artistry, aiming to clarify the distinct elements that set his compositions apart from previous operatic traditions, particularly in the context of "Tristan und Isolde." Hight highlights the need for a deeper understanding of Wagner's aims and the challenges faced by audiences conditioned by earlier French and Italian operas. The beginning of the essay sets the tone for Hight's exploration into Wagner's philosophy and artistry, emphasizing the necessity of altering one's perception to appreciate Wagner's innovations. Hight argues that an understanding of Wagner's work requires an unlearning of contemporary operatic preconceptions and calls for readers to engage with the emotional depths conveyed through Wagner’s music and drama. The initial chapters introduce various themes including the significance of Wagner's theoretical writings and the nature of Wagner's dramatic expression, discussing the broader implications of his work in the context of art and societal values. Hight portrays Wagner not only as a composer but as a reformer of dramatic art, urging readers to comprehend the organic unity of the arts he pursued in his dramatic structures.
Lawrence Gilman
Debussy's Pelléas et Mélisande A Guide to the Opera with Musical Examples from the Score
"Debussy's Pelléas et Mélisande" by Lawrence Gilman is a guide to the opera, complete with musical examples from Debussy's score, authored in the early 20th century. This work provides an in-depth analysis of Claude Debussy's groundbreaking opera, which was first performed in 1902 and is based on the play by Maurice Maeterlinck. It discusses Debussy's innovative musical techniques and the emotional depth of the opera's characters, primarily focusing on the love story of Pelléas and Mélisande, set against themes of fate and tragedy. The opening of this guide elaborates on the significance of Debussy's "Pelléas et Mélisande" in the history of music, noting its departure from traditional operatic forms. It presents an overview of Debussy's unique artistic style, detailing the operatic narrative as a lyrical drama rich in atmosphere and emotional nuance. Through discussions of the characters, such as the mysterious Mélisande and her relationship with Pelléas and Golaud, it highlights the interplay between music and the haunting themes of love and destiny. Additionally, it sets the tone for a detailed exploration of the score, emphasizing how Debussy's music complements the ethereal and poignant nature of Maeterlinck's text.
R. A. (Richard Alexander) Streatfeild
The Opera A Sketch of the Development of Opera. With full Descriptions of all Works in the Modern Repertory.
"The Opera" by R. A. Streatfeild is a historical account written in the early 20th century that explores the development of opera from its inception to the modern repertoire. The book delves into the origins of opera, the evolution of various styles, and the contributions of pivotal composers like Monteverdi, Gluck, and Mozart. The opening of this work introduces the early history of opera, detailing its accidental inception in late 16th century Florence, where enthusiasts attempted to revive Greek drama. Streatfeild highlights key figures such as Jacopo Peri, whose "Euridice" is noted as a landmark in operatic history, along with Monteverdi, who expanded the art form significantly. As the narrative progresses, we learn how opera evolved through the contributions of various composers across different cultures, setting the stage for a comprehensive exploration of opera’s rich history throughout the subsequent chapters.
Carl Van Vechten
Interpreters
"Interpreters" by Carl Van Vechten is a collection of biographical essays about notable opera singers and their artistry, written in the early 20th century. The book explores the lives and careers of various interpreters in the lyric arts, focusing notably on Olive Fremstad, Geraldine Farrar, and Mary Garden. It provides insight into their struggles, personalities, and the nuances of their performances, offering a glimpse into the world of opera during this transformative period. The opening of the work centers around Olive Fremstad, detailing her tumultuous journey as a singer, her challenges with voice and performance, and the vigorous effort she invests in her characterizations. It describes how, despite her talent and intensity, she faces criticism and struggle with certain roles that her immense talent nonetheless shines through. This introductory section sets the tone for the book, which is marked by a deep appreciation for the art of performance and the complexities faced by those who interpret it, highlighting both personal struggles and artistic triumphs within the grand tapestry of opera.
E. Markham (Ernest Markham) Lee
The story of opera
"The Story of Opera" by E. Markham Lee is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work explores the development and transformation of opera as an art form, tracing its origins, evolution, key contributors, and various national schools. Intended as both an accessible introduction and a reference, the book covers significant composers, styles, reforms, and performance practices in opera, while also providing guidance for listeners and students. Its likely audience ranges from interested amateurs to more serious students seeking an up-to-date and readable overview of the operatic tradition. The opening of "The Story of Opera" frames opera as a complex, somewhat artificial yet deeply expressive art form, setting it apart from spoken drama due to its reliance on continuous music to accentuate emotion and storytelling. Beginning with a discussion on the difficulty of defining opera, the author highlights its essential characteristic: a staged drama in which music is a fundamental, not merely decorative, component. The text then outlines the historical development of opera, introducing the reader to major innovations, reforms, and national schools, from the early Italian experiments to the repertories of Germany, France, and England. The narrative covers the roles of key reformers such as Monteverdi, Gluck, and Wagner, depicts the cyclical nature of operatic trends and reforms, and establishes the importance of understanding both music and dramatic content to fully appreciate opera's significance.
William Johnson Galloway
The Operatic Problem
"The Operatic Problem" by William Johnson Galloway is a critical exploration of the operatic landscape in England, written during the early 20th century. This publication is a significant treatise that focuses on the challenges facing opera as an art form in England, particularly considering its accessibility and the lack of a national opera system when compared to other European countries. Galloway advocates for the establishment of a nationally-subsidized opera house in England to enhance the cultural offerings available to the public. In the book, Galloway outlines the historical roots of opera and its evolution across Europe, emphasizing the successes of State-supported opera in countries like Italy, Germany, and France. He argues that England has mostly imported opera rather than fostering its own, leading to missed opportunities for cultivating local talent. Through detailed comparisons of European systems, he presents a vision for an English National Opera that emphasizes native productions while making opera accessible to broader audiences. He believes that this initiative would not only revive English operatic traditions but also have significant social and economic benefits for the community. Ultimately, Galloway's proposition serves both as a heartfelt plea for the arts and a pragmatic approach to enhancing British culture.
John F. Runciman
Old Scores and New Readings: Discussions on Music & Certain Musicians
"Old Scores and New Readings: Discussions on Music & Certain Musicians" by John F. Runciman is a collection of musical critiques written in the early 20th century. The work delves into historical analyses and opinions on various composers, including well-known figures like Byrde, Purcell, Bach, Handel, Haydn, and Mozart. Runciman's discussions aim to reassess their contributions to music and defend the legacy of composers who he believes have been unjustly overlooked or misunderstood by later critics. The opening of the book begins with an admiration for the English composer William Byrde, particularly focusing on his D minor Mass and emphasizing its beauty and emotional depth. Runciman advocates for reevaluating Byrde's work, arguing that previous judgments have neglected the innovation and expressiveness found in his music, which deviated from later established rules of composition. He contrasts Byrde's artistry with that of his contemporaries and successors, suggesting that his music belongs among the finest treasures of early English composition. This sets the tone for the book, as Runciman promises to explore both the merits and cultural contexts of various historical musicians throughout his ensuing discussions.
Lawrence Gilman
Aspects of Modern Opera: Estimates and Inquiries
"Aspects of Modern Opera: Estimates and Inquiries" by Lawrence Gilman is a critical examination of modern operatic art, likely written in the early 20th century. The book discusses the influence of figures like Wagner, Puccini, and Strauss on contemporary opera, analyzing their contributions and the subsequent developments in the genre. It explores the evolution of operatic expression and the tensions between music and drama in modern works. The opening of the text sets the stage for an in-depth inquiry into the aftermath of Wagner's impactful legacy on opera. Gilman reflects on the general decline of creative vitality in opera after Wagner's death, suggesting that while his influence has been substantial, it has also stifled originality among his successors. He critiques the limitations of several composers, particularly in the context of their inability to break free from Wagnerian principles, ultimately leading to a discussion of the few artists—like Puccini and Strauss—who successfully navigate their own paths in the evolving landscape of opera.
Henry Edward Krehbiel
The Mentor: Makers of Modern Opera, Vol. 1, Num. 47, Serial No. 47
"The Mentor: Makers of Modern Opera, Vol. 1, Num. 47, Serial No. 47" by H. E. Krehbiel is a historical account of influential figures in the development of modern opera, written in the early 20th century. The book explores the contributions of various composers, notably Giuseppe Verdi, Richard Wagner, Giacomo Puccini, and Charles Gounod, detailing their artistic evolution and the impact of their works on the operatic landscape. This engaging overview highlights the transition from traditional operatic forms to more innovative and expressive styles that characterized the modern opera movement. In the text, Krehbiel delves into the lives and careers of these distinguished composers, providing a window into their creative processes and the musical contexts in which they worked. Verdi is portrayed as the master of Italian opera whose melodic genius transformed the genre, while Wagner is recognized for his revolutionary ideas that reshaped the operatic narrative. Puccini follows as a torchbearer of Italian songwriting with his stirring and emotionally charged operas like "La Bohème" and "Madame Butterfly." Gounod’s works are celebrated for their lyrical charm, particularly "Faust." The book captures the essence of how these artists forged new paths in opera, each contributing distinct styles and techniques that resonate in contemporary music, leaving an indelible mark on the art form.
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