A Treasury of Grand Operaedited by Henry W. Simon and illustrated by Frederick Banbery is a beautifully done book consisting of a compilation of 7 of the best loved operas with musical scores:
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Don Giovanni by Mozart
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La Traviata by Verdi
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Carmen by Bizet.
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Lohengrin by Wagner
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Faust by Gounod
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Aida by Verdi
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Pagliacci by Leoncavallo
Each opera features a full page illustration, quite beautiful with a simple 2 color palate. There are smaller illustrations through out all done in black & white. The artist illustrates each scene from the operas with fluid lines and shadows.
All the musical scores are given with 66 arias, duets, preludes etc., with the complete easily playable piano arrangements. Words are in original languages with English translations.
Historical introductions to each opera with a complete cast of characters will make each opera come to life, there are even detailed musical analysis written for the layman.
The large paperback book & hardcover is approximately 12.25" by 9" and is 1" thick.
Piano arrangements by Albert Sirmay
Translations by George Mead
Music supervisor: William Steinberg
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