The Verdi Baritone (studies In The Development Of Dramatic Character)

By (author) Edwards, Geoffrey; By (author) Edwards Ryan
Short description/annotation
One of the most significant developments in 19th-century Italian opera was the genesis of the Verdi baritone. This book argues that the composer''s baritone characters embody "a quintessential humanity, expressing needs and temptations, confusions and understandings, griefs and joys that transcend the particulars of time and place."
Description

One of the most significant developments in 19th-century Italian opera was the genesis of the Verdi baritone. The authors argue that the composer''s baritone characters embody "a quintessential humanity, expressing needs and temptations, confusions and understandings, griefs and joys that transcend the particulars of time and place." The Verdi Baritone explores seven of the most fascinating roles in the repertory, revealing how they were conceived and executed. This eloquent book opens with a discussion of Verdi''s early triumph, Nabucco; proceeds with Ernani, Macbeth, Rigoletto, La Traviata, and Simon Boccanegra; and concludes with his final great tragedy, Otello. Voice students, professional performers, their teachers and coaches, and opera lovers, will gain insight into Verdi''s masterful use of text, music, and staging to portray each character''s inner self.

Table of contents

Contents
Preface
Acknowledgments

Introduction
Nabucco
Ernani
Macbeth
Rigoletto
La Traviata
Simon Boccanegra
Otello8

Appendix: Plot Synopses
Nabucco
Ernani
Macbeth
Rigoletto
La Traviata
Simon Boccanegra
Otello
Selected Bibliography
Notes

Review quote

Singing actors delight when a well-written, practical, and carefully documented source for character development assists their research. . . . The Verdi Baritone offers a unique, and uniquely qualified, discourse on a much too often overlooked aspect of the operas.

Review quote

The Verdi Baritone, a thoughtful, perceptive collection, should be required reading for directors, conductors, vocal coaches, and baritones preparing to sing these roles.

Biographical note

Geoffrey Edwards is an award-winning author and stage director who received his Ph.D. in theater and drama from Northwestern University.

Ryan Edwards gained international acclaim as a singing actor during his career as a leading baritone with the Metropolitan Opera.

Promotional headline

Text, music, and staging of baritone roles in Verdi''s major operas