Customer Reviews

Baker's Dictionary of Opera

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Actually, when it comes to "primary" references, there are only two "musts" for opera fans (ASSUMING said fans want a single, TRULY COMPREHENSIVE encyclopedia of operas and opera composers):

(1) One would be either the (1993 hardcover edition) "Viking Opera Guide" or its more recent (renamed) softcover incarnation, the (2001 edition) "NEW Penguin Opera Guide." [Ignore all earlier or "concise" opera guides bearing the word "Penguin" but not also the word "New" in their titles!]

(2) The other would be the huge, four-volume "New Grove Dictionary of Opera."

The four-volume "New Grove" is the ultimate, but it also costs a small fortune. The "Viking/New Penguin" is a highly respectable "second-best." By the way, all in all, I like the "1993 Viking" somewhat better than the "2001 New Penguin," even though their textual content is MOSTLY identical (textually, there are OCCASIONAL deletions and additions with EITHER version, with the overall advantage going to the "Viking"). The old "Viking" edition has MANY more (and entirely different) illustrations than the "New Penguin" edition. Still, on balance, the "New Penguin" is "close enough," and it can generally be found at a much lower price than the old "Viking."

As for this big "Baker's Dictionary of Opera" book, it's an impressive "SUPPLEMENT" to either of the above references (and, as such, it's something that, generally, only public or institutional libraries would purchase); but it's by no means the best choice for anybody's "primary" reference on operas and opera composers.

This encyclopedic reference offers over 1,00 entries covering the scope of opera, from its well-known personalities to modern artists such as Andrea Bocelli. Also included are synopses of operas, a history timeline, a glossary and a reference to opera companies, productions and the world's leading opera houses. Black and white photos enhance a well-rounded coverage which will prove a 'must' for opera fans.