Unlike some other reproductions of classic texts (1) We have not used OCR(Optical Character Recognition), as this leads to bad quality books with introduced typos. (2) In books where there are images such as portraits, maps, sketches etc We have endeavoured to keep the quality of these images, so they represent accurately the original artefact. Although occasionally there may be certain imperfections with these old texts, we feel they deserve to be made available for future generations to enjoy.

Puccini's La boheme is one of the most beloved and enduring operas of all time. In this guide, William Ashbrook evaluates the opera's initial reception, the reasons for its wide appeal and Verdi's influence on the composition. Nicholas John discusses the tortuous evolution of the libretto over the course of three and a half years and gives a synopsis, outlining the main themes of La boheme. Edward Greenfield presents an essay on the musical structure and consistency of the opera, whose 'very accessibility tends to obscure the musical genius behind the score'. Finally, Joanna Richardson surveys the Bohemians in Paris portrayed by Henry Murger, whose stories formed the basis for Puccini's work. This edition has over twenty photographs, a detailed thematic analysis and the original libretto with a facing literal translation by William Weaver. It also has an up-to-date bibliography, discography, DVD and website details. The guide is essential reading for anyone interested in the background to this opera, its themes and composition.

"Tosca," one of Puccini's greatest and most popular operas, is a supreme example of music's power to enthrall the audience. In his introductory essay to this guide, Bernard Williams discusses the enduring quality of its appeal. Bernard Keeffe, in his article, analyzes different aspects of the score, noting Puccini's special genius for orchestration and the subtle effects that give the opera its irresistible vitality, while Stuart Woolfe's survey of the historical background reveals its political and nationalistic undertones. Enriched by 25 iconic archive photographs, a detailed thematic analysis, the original libretto with the facing literal translation, and a section containing up-to-date discographical and bibliographical information, this guide will prove an invaluable companion for opera-goers and anyone wanting to delve deeper into the genesis, history, and significance of Puccini's work.

One of the most performed and recorded operas of all time, this intense drama revolves around lust, revenge, and betrayal. It is noted for its sumptuous musical scoring and two of opera's most famous arias, "Vissi d'arte" and "E lucevan le stelle." Reprinted from the authoritative full-score edition published shortly after the opera's 1900 premiere. Lay-flat binding.

Safe within their cocoons, butterflies only become vulnerable when they emerge to enchant the world with their beauty. "Madama Butterfly" has been breaking hearts for over a century with its tragic tale of an innocent Japanese girl who abandons her faith and her family to marry an American naval lieutenant. Giacomo Puccini created a dozen operas, many of them rooted in his fascination with exotic lands and foreign cultures. Inspired by a London performance of one-act play by American playwright David Belasco, the composer developed an emotionally charged musical score to accompany this tale of devotion, tradition, and sacrifice.
The opera's most famous aria, "Un bel di vedremo" ("One beautiful day, we will see"), in which the heroine professes her faith in her lover, ranks among the most popular works in the soprano repertoire. "Dovunque al mondo" ("Throughout the world") characterizes Butterfly's American officer with a musical theme based on "The Star Spangled Banner." Other highlights include the endings of each of the three acts: the extended love duet "Vogliatemi bene" ("Love me, please."); the wordless beauty of "Coro a bocca chiusa," ("Humming Chorus"); and the climactic aria "Con onor muore" ("To die with honor"). This authoritative 1906 edition of one the world's most beloved operas features the original Italian lyrics.

Authoritative Italian edition of one of the world's most beloved operas. Sturdy, attractive volume reprints every note of Puccini's masterpiece, based on Murger's novel, Scenes de la vie de Boheme. English translations of list of characters and instruments and the table of contents.

Offprinted from the anthology Opera Choruses, this is a short piece from Madama Butterfly. It is set for ST and piano or orchestra.

Puccini's songs were written as occasional pieces: student works, contributions to periodicals, salon pieces for friends. Some passages pre-echo, or were borrowed for, his operas, and they throw fascinating light on his compositional development. The 15 songs are presented here with English translations, notes on chronology, and a detailed introduction. Most are suitable for either male or female performers.