Italian Opera (National Traditions of Opera) - Softcover

Kimbell, David R. B.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521466431 ISBN 13: 9780521466431

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1994

Synopsis

Italy was the birthplace of opera. In this authoritative and accessible account of Italian opera, David Kimbell introduces those who, over three hundred years, created not only a national tradition but the central tradition from which others have drawn their inspiration. He traces the history of Italian opera from its origins in the humanism of the Renaissance to Puccini in the early twentieth century, drawing attention not only to musical issues but also to the social, literary, and philosophical ideas that have shaped modern Italian civilization.

About this title

Book Description:

Tracing the history of Italian opera from its origins in the humanism of the Renaissance to Puccini in the early twentieth century, this authoritative account draws attention to influential social, literary and philosophical ideas as well as musical issues.

From Library Journal:

Kimbell (music, Univ. of Edinburgh) has penned an ambitious operatic history which presents opera as a reflection of Italy's culture and history. Many disparate elements have influenced the development of a genre so closely defined with Italy, and readers with access to scores or recordings of the works discussed will be particulary appreciative. A recent photo of Italian tenor Luciano Pavarotti graces the dust jacket, but material on modern productions and singers is absent. This should appeal to fans familiar with the Italian operatic repertoire rather than the opera neophyte, in part because of the many musical examples which capture and illustrate changing operatic styles, as well as the distinctive traits of various composers. Recommended for music collections emphasizing operatic history.
- James E. Ross, Seattle P.L.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1994
• ISBN 10: 0521466431
• ISBN 13: 9780521466431
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 704