Opera: What's All the Screaming About?

by Roger Englander

An Emmy Award-winning expert on opera presents an entertaining introduction to the operatic world, tracing its history, discussing the great composers, and offering an in-depth study of Bizet's Carmen, including a CD of highlights from that opera. Original. QPB Alt.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction

192 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1983

Reviews

[Mary Pat · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very quick read, and provides a little taste for what opera is about. I liked the structure and how he applied each part to Carmen - specificity helps. However, he kept injecting opinion that's a bit off-putting and unnecessary. It's fine to have a point of view, but it's not helpful to his position to sneer at opposing opinions.

Also, this is dated and it is long due for someone to update. I think something with a similar structure would be good.

[Elizabeth Quinn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this as research for my novel, My Phantom: The Memoir of Christine Daaé. The novel is set in the world of opera. When I began this project, I knew ZERO about opera. This book began my education.

[Jen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Delightful for read for anyone, not just beginners, as it includes many interesting historical tidbits.

[Robert · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good quick intro to a world of music that most of us do not know.