Opera 101 is recognized as the standard text in English for anyone who wants to become an opera lover--a clear, friendly, and truly complete handbook to learning how to listen to opera, whether on the radio, on recordings, or live at the opera house. Fred Plotkin, an internationally respected writer and teacher about opera who for many years was performance manager of the Metropolitan Opera, introduces the reader (whatever his or her level of musical knowledge) to all the elements that make up opera, including:
-A brief, entertaining history of opera;
-An explanation of key operatic concepts, from vocal types to musical conventions;
-Hints on the best way to approach the first opera you attend and how to best understand what is happening both offstage and on;
-Lists of recommended books and recordings, and the most complete traveler's guide to opera houses around the world.

Paperback, 494 pages