Verdi's Operas

Giuseppe Verdi's operas have a special place in the hearts of audiences and in music history.

They are grand in scale and yet intensely human in their ability to convey the joys and sorrows of ordinary people. Celebrated as a national treasure and venerated for his civic, historical, and musical influence, Verdi enjoyed an enviable and almost uninterrupted success with the public throughout his long lifetime and a corresponding posthumous glory that never seems to wane. Celebrations have recently been held around the world to mark the 200th anniversary of his birth and to celebrate and promote his rich legacy.

In Verdi's Operas , each of Verdi's 26 operas, from Oberto to Falstaff , is studied in detail, The plots are described act by act, and the works are analysed and placed in the context of history and of the composer's creative career. The book also examines the literary sources that inspired the maestro's dramaturgy and presents profiles of the librettists who worked with him at the time.

Lavishly illustrated with striking artwork, photos, and scenes from Verdi productions, this book will delight opera buffs and casual readers alike.

About the Author

Giorgio Bagnoli has worked as a director and costume designer for theatre, dance, and opera companies. He teaches courses in costume design and the history of music and theatre at the Academy of Fine Arts in Verona, Italy. In 2008 he became the editor of GB Opera, an online magazine devoted to opera. His written works include The La Scala Encyclopaedia of the Opera.