The Birth of an Opera

In The Birth of an Opera, Michael Rose explores the fascinating processes behind the creation of fifteen iconic operas, drawing on primary sources such as letters and memoirs from composers, librettists, and performers. Each chapter provides a compelling narrative that situates the operas within the context of the composers' lives, revealing the complex personalities and dramatic incidents that shaped their works. From the lively collaboration of Mozart and his librettist on Le Nozze di Figaro to Wagner's confessions of love while composing Tristan und Isolde, Rose uncovers the intriguing dynamics and challenges that contributed to the creation of opera's most celebrated masterpieces.