This title was first published in 2001. Concentrating exclusively on the dramatic content of Verdi's opera, this text illuminates the characters and plot scenarios that inspired one of the greatest composers of opera. Organized alphabetically, the reference contains over 250 entries, with synopses and first performance and cast details.

An encyclopedia of biography of notable men and women in music and the drama.

Written with exclusive access to the original Verdi family documents, this book explores the facts behind the myths of this extraordinary figure. Previously unknown aspects of Verdi's life are exposed in this biography, which took 30 years to write.