The world of the castrati
Subtitle: the history of an extraordinary operatic phenomenon
By: Patrick Barbier ; translated by Margaret Crosland.
Publisher: Souvenir
Published: 2001
Place of publication: London
Language: eng
Number of pages: 262
Subjects: Castrati.; Opera -- 18th century.
Work titles: Histoire des castrats.
Description: This entertaining and authoritative study of the castrati during the baroque period explores the lives and triumphs of more than 60 singers over three centuries—their social origins, training, and relationship to society and church. Blending history and anecdote, it traces the course of a phenomenon that held Europe in its thrall. People were fascinated by these hybrids—part man, part woman, and part child—who became virile heroes on the operatic stage. The reader will learn of the horrors of castration, the nature of the strange castrato voice, and the conflicts these singers experienced.
Notes: Translation of: Histoire des castrats.

Includes bibliographical references(p. [249]-256) and index.