The Operas of Benjamin Britten

by Patricia Howard

Benjamin Britten's operas and dramatic works are not frequently performed now. This book is designed to enable theater goers to make the most of any opportunity to see them live by briefing them on events on-stage and in the orchestra, and also preparing them for the experience of becoming involved in the drama. There is a chapter on each of Britten's dramatic works, including "Noye's Fludde" and the "Parables for Church Performance", but excluding the edited "Dido", the revised "Beggar's Opera", and the early "Paul Bunyan". There is also a general survey of Britten's musicodramatic art throughout the canon. Although it is primarily intended to assist the inexperienced llistener and stimulate the confirmed opera goer, this book should interest all those concerned with writing, producing, or studying the operas of our time.

236 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 1969

Reviews

[Sammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Valuable. Howard notes in her introduction that at the time (late 1960s) Britten's operas were still infrequently performed in many areas, and that the works had much more depth than could be experienced seeing them once or twice in a decade. This is part of that wonderful 20th century tradition of books that explored each opera through a detailed plot summary with some musical analysis and thematic insights on the side.

A nice volume, although not one of the more serious or magisterial tomes on Britten.