Synopses & Reviews
Norma is by common consent the finest of the ten operas composed during Vincenzo Bellini's short career. Professor Kimbell provides the biographical and cultural context of the opera, examines its artistic qualities and suggests something of the impression Norma has made on our imaginations and sensibilities in the 165 years since it was first produced in Milan. He considers the great interpretations of the eponymous leading role, while also embracing Bellini's work more generally by presenting some of the critical reactions to his music.
Review
"In this excellent handbook about a key bel canto opera, Kimbell continues with the successful formula for this Cambridge series that stresses the artistic quality of the work, its sources, composition, reception and cultural context...worthwhile...Highly recommended." The Opera Journal
Table of Contents
1. The composition of the opera; 2. Medea - Velleda - Norma: Romani's sources; 3. Synopsis and musical frame; 4. Music and poetry; 5. A glimpse of the genesis of the opera; 6. Some variant readings; 7. Contemporary reactions to Norma; 8. Critical fortunes since the unification of Italy; 9. Five prima donnas: contributions to a performance history.