New in Paperback This book supplies a soprano with nearly everything she may need to perform the operatic arias discussed. The 28 arias included are chosen from among those that are more popular and most widely studied and performed. There are descriptions of stage settings, with costume sketches by famed theatrical designer Leo Van Witsen. The heart of each discussion is a detailed descriptions of the sections of the area. While the scenic design may change from one production to another, the suggestions given for dramatic motivations, character building, and stage movement can be readily...

For listeners to the Saturday afternoon broadcasts of the Metropolitan Opera, Boris Goldovsky's cheery "Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen " has always heralded a quarter hour of pure enjoyment. Since 1946 Goldovsky has been treating the Met's radio audiences to his scholarly observations and personal reminiscences. Twenty six of his intermission scripts have been included in this book, including Aida, Carmen, The Magic Flute, and Tosca.