Ofenbach: A Biography of the Satirical Master and King of Classical Light Opera

Author: (French) Adolphe Adam
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-10-01
Features: The German-born French composer Jacques Offenbach is more renowned for his grand operas The Tales of Hoffmann and La Belle Hélène, but his primary creative output consists of over 80 operettas, including Orpheus in the Underworld and The Merry Widow. He synthesized the essence of French, Italian, and other national styles of farce, operetta, and Singspiel, employing a light-hearted and humorous traditional musical language while infusing it with his rich and varied romantic imagination. This gave rise to the popular art form of operetta and a vast array of works. His libretti range from timeless ancient legends to vibrant scenes of contemporary life, portraying ordinary people's kindness, justice, and love with sharp insight, abundant passion, and a light touch, while exposing the darkness of society and the shadows of human weaknesses, as well as satirizing the foolish and corrupt aristocratic rulers. His major operas remain staple repertoires of leading opera houses worldwide. This book, written in equally vivid, light-hearted, and humorous language, combined with extensive and credible historical facts, tells the rich life, prolific creations, and artistic characteristics of Offenbach in a lively and engaging manner. It is an illustrated biography that modern fans of comedy and musical theater will find an excellent introduction to the forefather of Offenbach.