In The Shadow of the Stars Video - This powerful documentary goes behind the scenes of the San Francisco Opera Company discovering among the choristers the singers who aspire to be soloists and who dream of being stars. Even for non-opera goers, the film illuminates the out-sized thrill of being onstage, made-up to the teeth, dressed in satins and silks, singing oneās heart out. The film lovingly explores the blurred boundary between private lives and stage spectacles, and creates a rare and privileged look into the grand world of opera. $29.95
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Opera Imaginaire Video - Here is a very special musical experience in which the passions, emotions and drama of twelve popular arias come to life through the interpretations of some of Europeās most talented animators. For the novice, Opera Imaginaire is an unforgettable introduction to these classic works through a uniquely entertaining medium. For the aficionado, it brings a new dimension to such masters as Mozart, Bizet and Verdi. $29.95
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The Definitive Kobbéās Opera Book - It is no exaggeration to say that Kobbé is to opera what Bartlett is to quotations or Julia Child to cuisine­the undisputed leader in its field. For almost seven decades, through a number of revisions, Kobbé has been the most authoritative opera guide available in English. The stories of more than 300 of the worldās great operas are related in detail, complete with musical examples. Every entry is headed by a detailed log of the dates, places and casts of the significant premieres and revivals of each work. By Fred Plotkin $40.00
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The St. James Opera Encyclopedia - This is a thorough history of the art form from its beginnings to the present day, covering 500 operas, performers and conductors in lively detail. Spirited essays, written by experts in the field, offer critical analyses, plot and character overviews, and composition and production information. Plus, youāll find intriguing personal information on operaās charismatic participants. Opera is a musical, emotional and visual feast. Whether you are an ardent fan, or timidly testing the waters, youíll discover much to learn about and enjoy. Includes over 100 compelling, full-page photographs. $29.95
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Opera 101 Book - If youāve decided that the time has finally come to learn about opera, to make sense of the odd-sounding voices and melodramatics, and to discover for yourself what it is about opera that sends your normally reserved friends and family into states of ecstatic abandon, this is the book for you. Opera 101 is the guide that every novice to opera has been waiting for-a clear, friendly and truly complete handbook on learning how to listen to opera. The major part of the book is devoted to an almost minute-by-minute analysis of eleven key operas that offers an extrememly detailed and enlightening method of revealing operaās riches. $14.95
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Sing Me a Story - Thrilling operas are brought to children in the most enjoyable way in this collection of fifteen illustrated tales. Sing Me a Story relates in words and pictures such famous operas as La Bohème, Carmen, The Magic Flute, and Pagliacci in all their splendor. This introduction to these all-time favorites will stimulate a childās interest in opera­an interest that can be nourished by the many opportunities to hear and see a performance, be it on television or in the opera house. By embracing the magic and passion of the opera stage, Sing Me a Story is a book for the child in all of us. By Jane Rosenberg. $15.95
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Opera History Map - See at a glance the historical development of opera, from its origins in 16th-century Italy to the present. The time-line graphics approach to this poster help clarify the composersā works, and the basic terms we use in opera discussions. Opera lovers will particularly like the chronology of works by the individual composer. Illustrated with colorful photos and drawings of Puccini, Wagner, Verdi and Mozart, and world famous opera houses of New York, Paris, Vienna, Milan, and Bayreuth, this poster will be a handsome and educational addition to your home, school or office. $26.95
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