When the Fat Lady Sings - Opera History as it Ought to be Taught

David. W. Barber has delighted readers all around the world with the quirky definitions of Accidentals on Purpose, the irreverent history of Bach, Beethoven and the Boys, a hilariously offbeat history of dance and ballet in Tutus, Tights and Tiptoes, and a host of other internationally best-selling books of musical humour and literature. With When the Fat Lady Sings, the popular author and musical humourist turns his attention to what Dr. Johnson called `that exotic and irrational entertainment,' the world of opera. Here are stories of love and lust, jealousy, intrigue, murder, and tragic death - and that's just the stuff happening off stage, in the composers' personal lives. Wait till you read about the opera plots. Informal yet informative, witty yet wise, this book will both enlighten and entertain you. As always, Dave Donald has provided witty and clever cartoons that perfectly complement the text...