From the beginnings of opera in Italy over 400 years ago to the present day, the historical and artistic context of the most dramatic of all arts is elucidated in pleasurable, non-technical prose. Mozart, Verdi, Wagner, and Puccini are featured, but not to the exclusion of a thorough consideration of French and Russian masterworks, as well as operetta, Richard Strauss, and a comprehensive introduction to modern operatic music. Stories of great singers, past and present, and the author’s friendly association with some of them, enrich this engaging personal account.