Aspects of Modern Opera: Estimates and Inquiries

Name: Aspects of Modern Opera: Estimates and Inquiries
Author: Lawrence Gilman

By Lawrence Gilman

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About This Book

The collection presents critical essays examining contemporary operatic practice, opening with an appraisal of Wagner's pervasive influence and its effects on dramatic balance, orchestral dominance, and vocal writing. Subsequent essays offer assessments of Puccini's style and of Strauss's Salome, weighing melodic craft, dramatic coherence, and moral questions. A concluding piece outlines criteria for a perfected music-drama that reconciles orchestral richness with clear vocal declamation and stage veracity. The tone combines technical musical analysis with aesthetic judgment aimed at composers, critics, and attentive audiences.

About the Author

Lawrence Gilman

Lawrence Gilman was an American music critic and author known for his insightful analyses of modern opera and symphonic music. His notable works include "Aspects of Modern Opera: Estimates and Inquiries," where he explores the evolution of opera in the contemporary landscape, and "Debussy's Pelléas et Mélisande: A Guide to the Opera with Musical Examples from the Score," which serves as a detailed examination of Debussy's landmark work. Gilman also contributed to the understanding of American composer Edward MacDowell in his study titled "Edward MacDowell: A Study." Through his writings, Gilman has significantly enriched the discourse on music and its cultural implications.