The Last Prima Donnas

by Lanfranco Rasponi

Interviews with fifty-six great operatic divas of the twentieth century illuminate their lives, their art, and the world of modern opera

Genres: Music

1 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1982

Reviews

[Angel]

Lanfranco Rasponi's The Last Prima Donnas is a must read for anyone who loves opera, especially the art of opera singing. Rasponi has interviewed 50+ opera divas of the past and their interviews are a little bit of gossip, pathos and cattiness plus a hint at the glory of the 20th century's golden age of opera. Some of these divas are well known to opera lovers, some are not. I enjoyed every interview and was left longing for that by gone era. I wish he would have interviewed some other great divas like Maria Jeritza, Helen Traubel or Rise Stevens but the book would have been endless. I gave the book 4 stars instead of 5, because of the last chapter in the book dealing with the legendary icon Maria Callas. Rasponi does not hide his contempt for her or her artistry. I feel he should not have included her in the book. Other than that, this is a great book for opera singers, fans and young divas/students everywhere.

[Sam]

500 stars

[Kayla Marie]

There is so much knowledge, wisdom, & experience wrapped up into this one book. It focuses on female singers but all classical singers should read it & take notes from the best!