Synopsis
The Flying Dutchman - Der Fliegende Hollander - English National Opera Guide 12 (includes libretto)
Published by John Calder Publications
Der fliegende Holländer is the first of Wagner's operas that the author considered to be representative of his mature style
The Dutchman embodies one of the major themes that recur throughout Wagner's work, that of a central character seeking redemption from a loving woman
Originally taken from a story by Heinrich Heine, Wagner extended and enriched his musical and dramaturgical language to produce an opera of extraordinary power
An essay in the guide places the opera in the context of emerging German Romanticism and another highlights the musical riches of the score
A further article explores the emerging importance of myth to Wagner and his contemporaries
As well as a detailed description of the work's performance history, Wagner's own instructions to his performers and his programme note about the overture are also included
Illustrations, a thematic guide, the full libretto with English translation and reference sections are also included
REVIEWS
'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
'Excellent new Overture Opera Guide to Wagner's Flying Dutchman' ~ Evening Standard
'For everything you need to know, concisely packaged' ~ The Telegraph