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David Charlton

Popular Opera in Eighteenth-Century France: Music and Entertainment before the Revolution

Popular Opera in Eighteenth-Century France: Music and Entertainment before the Revolution

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  • More about Popular Opera in Eighteenth-Century France: Music and Entertainment before the Revolution

This book explores the development of French opera with spoken dialogue from its beginnings, revealing a comedic and musical genre that was popular in private homes and included news stories and political themes. It provides a pioneering account of the formation of a core of canonical popular works.

Format: Hardback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 16 December 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press


This groundbreaking work is the first book in a century to delve into the evolution of French opera with spoken dialogue, tracing its origins from its humble beginnings. Musical comedy in this unique form emerged in various styles, carving out a distinct genre of opera that has been largely overlooked in the annals of history. The performances of these operas took place in private homes, where the art form itself thrived, captivating audiences with its captivating melodies. However, the subject matter of these operas was far broader in scope than commonly perceived, encompassing a range of news stories and political themes that found their way onto the popular stage.

In his comprehensive exploration, David Charlton delves into the comedic and musical essence of eighteenth-century popular French opera, examining topics such as Gherardi's theatre, Fair Theatre, and the musico-dramatic art that emerged in the mid-eighteenth century. The book encompasses a comprehensive account of performance practices, singers, audience experiences, and theatre staging, providing a pioneering insight into the formation of a core of canonical popular works.

Through meticulous research and analysis, Charlton sheds light on the rich tapestry of eighteenth-century French opera, unveiling its historical significance and its enduring impact on the world of music. This captivating book is a must-read for music enthusiasts, opera lovers, and anyone interested in exploring the intricate connections between music, drama, and society during this pivotal period.

Weight: 854g
Dimension: 177 x 251 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781316515846
Edition number: New ed

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