Opera : a concise history

Whatever the period, high passion and exotic spectacle are characteristically fused in opera to create stirring and memorable theatrical experiences. Leslie Orrey surveys the whole history of opera from its evolution at the end of the 16th century, assessing the impact of changes in the styles, conditions and architecture of the theater, as well as the increasing influence of the producer. This revised edition has been edited by Rodney Milnes, Editor of Opera Magazine. 253 illus., 32 in color.