Pre-Season Summer Reading

Orphée et Eurydice
Orpheus: The Song of Life by Ann Wroe explores how the mythical poet and musician has mesmerized and inspired creative types through the ages. Contemporary poet Gregory Orr's Orpheus and Eurydice: A Lyric Sequence interprets the myth with spare grace.


Rigoletto
A comprehensive new Opera Study Guide and Libretto of Rigoletto written by Burton D. Fisher features everything you need to know about Verdi’s work. From a brief synopsis of the opera to a newly translated libretto with Italian and English translation side-by-side, this guide is filled with insightful and in-depth commentary that makes it impossible to put down! Or go straight to the Victor Hugo play, The Fool's Revenge, which inspired the opera.


Die Walküre 
Learn about the story behind each Ring Cycle opera and how the history of the times influenced Wagner’s writing in this concise introduction to Wagner’s Ring Cycle by M. Owen Lee. 


The Pearl Fishers
First published in 1991, Christoph Schwandt’s Georges Bizet: A Biography is widely recognized as the definitive work on Bizet’s life. Translated into English by Cynthia Klohr—Schwandt rewrites and restores the historical record concerning Bizet’s achievements and contributions to the world of music. 


Turandot
In this witty and informative guide for beginners and fans alike, William Berger strikes just the right balance of introductory information and thought-provoking analysis on Puccini and his works. He includes a biography, discussions of each opera, a glossary, fun facts and anecdotes, and above all keen insight into Puccini’s enduring artistry. 


I Puritani
Dive into this easy to read, comprehensive, and fascinating collection of renowned Italian composers compiled by Philip Gossett, Friedrich Lippmann, & Andrew Porter.


Cosi fan tutte
Escape with author Rodney Bolt to the 18th century streets of Venice, Vienna, and London and explore the life and legacy of Mozart's librettist Lorenzo Da Ponte.


Faust
Immerse yourself in the story of the life and times of Charles François Gounod, the composer of Faust. James Harding delves into the ridicule Gounod received for his art during his lifetime, and the appreciation that unfolded for his works only after his death. Or go straight to the source, Goethe's Faust.


Fellow Travelers
Be sure to read the riveting historical novel by Thomas Mallon that inspired this highly acclaimed new opera.