The Operas of Verdi

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The three volumes of studies on Verdi's operas by Julian Budden are considered classics due to their comprehensive information on the operas' genesis, circumstances, and specifics, offering the most detailed descriptions available. Budden also provides a wealth of context about the composer, his life, and his era, all conveyed in accessible prose that situates each work within its historical backdrop. His extensive knowledge of 19th-century opera in Italy and France allows for insightful comparisons between Verdi and contemporaries like Donizetti and Meyerbeer. Budden explores Verdi's evolution from his early, uneven works to his later masterpieces, acknowledging both his strengths and weaknesses without resorting to hagiography. This balanced perspective highlights how Verdi both conformed to and distinguished himself from his musical environment. Additionally, these studies serve as a valuable resource for learning about lesser-known composers of the time. Budden enhances his scholarship with numerous musical examples, contributing to a work of the highest academic quality.