An Introduction to the Dramatic Works of Giacomo Meyerbeer: Operas, Ballets, Cantatas, Plays

Meyerbeer (1791-1864) was a great musical dramatic artist in his own right. The fame of his operas rests on his radical treatment of form, his development of scenic complexes and greater plasticity of structure and melody, his dynamic use of the orchestra, and close attention to all aspects of presentation and production, all of which set new standards in Romantic opera and dramaturgy. This consideration of Meyerbeer's operas provides an approachable introduction into the composer's...
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Meyerbeer (1791-1864) was a great musical dramatic artist in his own right. The fame of his operas rests on his radical treatment of form, his development of scenic complexes and greater plasticity of structure and melody, his dynamic use of the orchestra, and close attention to all aspects of presentation and production, all of which set new standards in Romantic opera and dramaturgy. This consideration of Meyerbeer's operas provides an approachable introduction into the composer's operatic creation by locating each work within the context of his life, the work of the librettist and the sources used in shaping the scenario.