Opera

What is opera and how does it work? How has this dramatic form developed and what is its relevance in the modern world? Perfect for music students and opera-goers this introductory guide addresses these questions and many more exploring opera as a complete theatrical experience. Organised chronologically and avoiding technical musical terminology the book clearly demonstrates how opera reflected and reacted to changes in the world around it. A special feature of the volume is the inclusion of illustrative tables throughout. These provide detailed easy to follow analysis of arias scenes and acts; visual guides to historical movements; and chronologies relating to genres and individual composers'' works. Overall the book fosters an understanding of opera as a living form as it encounters and uses material from an ever expanding repertoire in time place and culture.