Aida is, for most of us, the quintessence of Ancient Egypt but it is certainly not just for archaeologists. Michael Rose points out that it is really about patriotism – an issue of burning importance to Verdi and his contemporaries. Music critic William Mann reflects that even a short look at the score reveals subtleties that repay careful listening. And Verdi’s own letters show the germs of the opera grow from suggestion to creation.

________

'Brilliantly produced and superb value.' Sunday Times

'All these will provide the new opera-goer with food for thought.' Daily Telegraph

'Wholehearted recommendation of this valuable new series.' TLS

________

By the same author: