The Knowledge: Opera

In a concise introduction to opera, from its history to synopses of the most popular works, Dennis Marks (1948-2015), the former General Director of English National Opera, explains what gives this strange activity the power to inspire the novice and obsess the enthusiast. Slightly off-mint.

Acclaimed director, producer and author Dennis Marks' work ranged from high-profile historical documentaries to award-winning films of contemporary operas. As a former Head of Music at BBC TV, Dennis was responsible for the corporation's televised music and dance - including the Proms - while from 1993 to 1997 he was the General Director of English National Opera, Europe's largest permanent opera company. Dennis has written and presented BBC Radio 3 celebrations on the life and work of Verdi, Walton, Berlioz and Janacek, and is currently writing a biography of the composer Sir Michael Tippett.