Collins Guide to Opera and Operetta

<p>Originally published in 1997, Collins Opera & Operetta is an invaluable guide to this fascinating but sometimes misunderstood art form, presenting essential information on over 180 major operas and operettas in an accessible, yet scholarly, way.</p> <p>The entry for each opera includes:</p> <ul> <li>The composer, the librettist and the first performance</li> <li>Principal characters and plot synopsis</li> <li>Musical approach and highlights</li> <li>Diverting background information, reviews and anecdotes featured in an entertaining Did you know? section</li> </ul> <p>The guide also includes a potted biography and list of operatic output for each composer, plus an overview of the history and development of opera and operetta, and a glossary of musical terms.</p> <p>With a timescale ranging from 17th century Monteverdi to present-day Birtwistle and an alphabetical spread from Adams to Zimmermann, via Britten, Mozart, Puccini, Strauss, Sullivan, Verdi and Wagner, Collins Opera & Operetta is an indispensable reference source for opera devotees and newcomers alike.</p>