William Berger Libros

Engagingly written, this collection showcases William Berger's insightful talks on Richard Wagner, highlighting the composer's complex legacy. Berger's accessible style appeals to both novices and seasoned experts, blending erudition with a lively tone that varies from the lofty to the unexpectedly coarse. The discussions weave together themes from mythology, psychology, and contemporary pop culture, illustrating Wagner's profound influence and the controversies surrounding his work. This book offers a unique exploration of one of history's most significant artists.

Focusing on Puccini's enduring influence, the book explores his status as the most beloved opera composer, with his works accounting for a significant portion of U.S. performances and permeating popular culture and film soundtracks. Despite his widespread appeal and the timeless nature of operas like Tosca, La Bohéme, and Madama Butterfly, Puccini has faced critical snobbery and cultural marginalization, highlighting the complex relationship between his art and the perceptions of the elite.

Do you cringe when your opera-loving friends start raving about the latest production of Tristan? Do you feel faint just thinking about the six-hour performance of Parsifal you were given tickets to? Does your mate accuse you of having a Tannhäuser complex? If you're baffled by the behavior of Wagner worshipers, if you've longed to fathom the mysteries of Wagner's ever-increasing popularity, or if you just want to better understand and enjoy the performances you're attending, you'll find this delightful book indispensable.William Berger is the most helpful guide one could hope to find for navigating the strange and beautiful world of the most controversial artist who ever lived. He tells you all you need to know to become a true Wagnerite--from story lines to historical background; from when to visit the rest room to how to sound smart during intermission; from the Jewish legend that possibly inspired Lohengrin to the tragic death of the first Tristan. Funny, informative, and always a pleasure to read, Wagner Without Fear proves that the art of Wagner can be accessible to everyone.Includes:- The strange life of Richard Wagner--German patriot (and exile), friend (and enemy) of Liszt and Nietzsche- Essential opera lore and "lobby talk"- A scene-by-scene analysis of each opera- What to listen for to get the most from the music- Recommended recordings, films, and sound tracks

One of the greatest operas of all time, La Traviata opens up like never before in a charming book that includes the libretto, the storyline, and history, and much much more. These opera books are beloved by fans and lovers of musical theater. And now they're available again, and packaged with gorgeous covers, each book in the library includes the complete opera on 2 CDs, featuring world-class performances and orchestras; the complete libretto, plus its English translation; an exciting history of the opera; a biography of the composer; a synopsis of the story, broken down by act and scene; and dozens of photographs and drawings depicting performances, singers, sets, costumes, and more. La Traviata features Beverly Sills, Nicolai Gedda, and Rolando Panerai, with Aldo Ceccato and is conducted by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Also available in the series is: La Bohÿ featuring Nicolai Gedda and Mirella Freni, with Thomas Schippers conducting the Orchestro e Coro del Teatro dell'Opera di Roma; The Marriage of Figaro featuring Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Heather Harper, Judith Blegen, Geraint Evans, Teresa Berganza, and Birgit Finnilÿwith Daniel Barenboim conducting the English Chamber Orchestra. Carmen featuring Grace Bumbry, Jon Vickers, Mirella Freni, and Kostas Paskalis, with Rafael Fru¿beck de Burgos conducting the Orchestra of the Thére National de l'Opé.