The Italian Traditions & Puccini

Compositional Theory & Practice in Nineteenth-Century Opera

Nicholas Baragwanath

• Publisher: Indiana University Press
• Year: 2011
• ISBN:
  9780253001665
• Topic: Media & Performing Arts
• Subtopic: Music Theory & Appreciation

"A major contribution... not only to Puccini studies but also to the study of nineteenth-century Italian opera in general." — Nineteenth-Century Music Review In this groundbreaking survey of the fundamentals, methods, and formulas that were taught at Italian music conservatories during the 19th Century, Nicholas Baragwanath explores the compositional significance of tradition in Rossini, Bellini, Donizetti, Verdi, Boito, and, most importantly, Puccini. Taking account of some 400 primary sources, Baragwanath explains the varying theories and practices of the period in light of current theoretical and analytical conceptions of this music. The Italian Traditions and Puccini offers a guide to an informed interpretation and appreciation of Italian opera by underscoring the proximity of archaic traditions to the music of Puccini. "Dense and challenging in its detail and analysis, this work is an important addition to the growing corpus of Puccini studies.... Highly recommended." — Choice

Table of contents

• Cover
• Title
• Copyright
• Contents
• Preface & Acknowledgments
• A Note on Translation and Terminology
• 1 Musical Traditions in Nineteenth-Century Italy
• 2 Studies in Lucca and Milan
• 3 Lessons in Dramatic Composition I: Rhythm
• 4 Lessons in Dramatic Composition II: Harmony and Counterpoint
• 5 Lessons in Dramatic Composition III: Affect, Imitation, and Conduct
• 6 Vocalizzi, Solfeggi, and Real (or Ideal) Composition
• Notes
• Bibliography
• Index of Concepts
• Index of Names and Works