The Opera: A Sketch of the Development of Opera. With full Descriptions of all Works in the Modern Repertory

R.A. Streatfeild

The Opera: A Sketch of the Development of Opera by R.A. Streatfeild is a comprehensive and scholarly overview of the evolution of opera from its earliest roots in Italy to the vibrant stages of modern Europe. This detailed work explores the structural and aesthetic transitions of opera through major periods—Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Modern—with focused analysis on the contributions of key composers such as Gluck, Mozart, Weber, Rossini, Donizetti, Bellini, Wagner, Verdi, and many others. Streatfeild provides full descriptions of the principal works that formed the operatic canon up to the early 20th century, emphasizing both their musical characteristics and their cultural significance. He also examines the unique development of national schools of opera in France, Italy, Germany, and England, offering deep insight into stylistic shifts, thematic innovation, and the impact of socio-political change on operatic form and function. With clarity and passion, the book guides readers through the historical landscape of opera, making it ideal for music students, scholars, performers, and anyone seeking to understand the power and enduring allure of this grand art form.

Table of contents

• INTRODUCTION
• CHAPTER I THE BEGINNINGS OF OPERA
• CHAPTER II THE REFORMS OF GLUCK
• CHAPTER III OPERA BUFFA, OPÉRA COMIQUE, AND SINGSPIEL
• CHAPTER IV MOZART
• CHAPTER V THE CLOSE OF THE CLASSICAL PERIOD
• CHAPTER VI WEBER AND THE ROMANTIC SCHOOL
• CHAPTER VII ROSSINI, DONIZETTI, AND BELLINI
• CHAPTER VIII MEYERBEER AND FRENCH OPERA
• CHAPTER IX WAGNER'S EARLY WORKS
• CHAPTER X WAGNER'S LATER WORKS
• CHAPTER XI MODERN FRANCE
• CHAPTER XII MODERN ITALY
• CHAPTER XIII MODERN GERMAN AND SLAVONIC OPERA
• CHAPTER XIV ENGLISH OPERA