Eugene Onegin is the most popular of Tchaikovsky’s operas. Entitled ‘Lyrical Scenes after Pushkin’ by the composer, the work takes as its basis the poem of the same name by the great Russian writer Alexander Pushkin. Its story of the unrequited love of Tatyana for the world-weary Onegin has exerted an irresistible hold over audiences for over a hundred years. With its combination of intimate private moments and sumptuous public scenes, the opera is one of the most fully achieved ever written.
In this guide there is an article comparing Pushkin’s original with its treatment in the opera, a detailed musical analysis and an appreciation of Tchaikovsky’s particular skill as a word-setter. An essay on its performance history details the contributions of the most notable artists who have taken part in productions of the work. Illustrations, a thematic guide, the full libretto with English translation and reference sections are also included.
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‘Neat little volumes they are, handy for carrying around, clearly printed and well set-out, complete with libretto and translation, discography and a generous selection of illustrations.’
Gramophone
'Brilliantly produced and superb value.'
The Sunday Times
'The jolliest of bargains.'
The Musical Times
'Marvellous... the best books of their kind.'
Hugh Canning
‘The first thing noticeable about these initial items in the revamped
Opera Guides series... is how much more solid and attractive these volumes are compared with the old ones. Production values are up, with more appealing design, clearer print and much better paper, making these books altogether more shelf-worthy.’
BBC Music Magazine
'Helpful, concise and stimulating.'
The Spectator
"An enriching read… it offers much food for thought on the possible significance and unique nature of Tchaikovsky's best-loved opera.'
BBC Music Magazine
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