Description
Book SynopsisVerdi's Simon Boccanegra exists in two versions: that of the 1857 original and that of the 1881 revision. The texts of the libretto of both versions are included in this guide, with a number of essays which focus on the differences between the two. Rodolfo Celleti provides the story's historical context, setting the events of the real life of Simon Boccanegra against the unification of Italy, which formed the political backdrop to the composition of both versions of Verdi's opera. James A. Hepokoski gives a detailed synopsis of the 1881 score, and indicates the ways in which Verdi radically revised the original and reworked it to fit his late style. Lastly, Desmond Shawe-Taylor discusses Verdi's attitude to his singers, and the critical reception that performances of both versions of the opera received.This edition contains over twenty illustrations, a thematic guide and the texts of the libretti in the original with literal translations. There is also a bibilography, discography and D
Table of ContentsList of Illustrations An Historical Perspective by Rodolfo Celletti An Introduction to the 1881 Score by James Hepokoski Verdi and his Singers by Desmond Shawe-Taylor Thematic Guide 'Simon Boccanegra' libretto by Francesco Maria Piave with additions by Giuseppe Montanelli and additions and alterations by Arrigo Boito 'Simon Boccanegra' English translation by James Fenton Prologue Act One Act Two Act Three Scenes from the 1857 libretto English translation by Sylvia Mulcahy Discography by Cathy Peterson Bibliography Contributors
