Gioachino Rossini's The Barber of Seville

Gioachino Rossini's The Barber of Seville explores the opera's performance history, examining the changes made to the score and the personalities responsible for them. It also considers the reactions of spectators and critics from the nineteenth century to the present and the impact of operatic consumerism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 09 November 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Gioachino Rossini's The Barber of Seville is a captivating exploration of the opera's rich performance history, tracing the myriad changes that have shaped the work since its premiere. It delves into the personalities behind these alterations, considering the diverse reactions they have elicited from spectators and critics across the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

The book begins by providing a comprehensive overview of the various modifications imposed on Rossini's score over the past two centuries. It explores the mechanics behind these changes, as well as the cultural forces that both fostered and encouraged them. The first chapter also sheds light on some of the opera's earliest revivals, highlighting the alterations made to the score and the individual singers responsible for them, particularly those who portrayed Almaviva and Bartolo.

A dedicated chapter is devoted to Rosina, examining the creative liberties taken by prima donnas in their interpretations of Rossini's character. It explores the wide range of interpretations and adaptations that have been made over the years, showcasing the prima donna's ability to shape and redefine the role.

The final sections of the book examine the opera's recent history, particularly the Rossini Renaissance that brought with it a renewed dedication to the work concept and a rejection of the traditional alterations that had characterized performances of The Barber of Seville. The book also explores operatic consumerism from the nineteenth century to the present, examining the myriad ways in which one can experience The Barber of Seville in recorded, digitized, and commodified forms.

In conclusion, Gioachino Rossini's The Barber of Seville is a seminal work that offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the opera's performance history. Through its detailed analysis of alterations, revivals, and interpretations, the book provides a valuable insight into the dynamic nature of opera and its enduring appeal to audiences worldwide.

Weight: 208g
Dimension: 140 x 207 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190299644