Bellini

Abstract Bellini is the most complete critical monograph ever published on this composer. His life is presented in the socio-historical context of his time. The book provides essential information for each opera, including a plot summary and its relationships to literary sources. The operas are explored in depth from the point of view of their dramatic and musical structure and their cultural meaning, demonstrating that Bellini was not only the creator of memorable melodies but, above all, a first-rate dramatist who pursued a coherent theatrical project. The analysis does not follow page by page the unfolding of the action and its musical accompaniment. Instead, after providing an overall key and describing the main stylistic features, the author discusses a limited number of significant scenes and passages more closely. Aspects connected to the performance are also considered, such as the staging, the relationship between Bellini and the most famous singers of his time, and their role in shaping his musical style. Finally, the modern reception of Bellini is discussed, how he was viewed by other composers and his influence on them, and the performance and staging problems of today.