M. Owen Lee Libri

For well over twenty years, M. Owen Lee has been offering intermission talks during the Saturday afternoon Texaco Metropolitan Opera broadcasts, which now reach countries on six continents. In this book, Father Lee covers various operas of Mozart, Verdi, Wagner, Puccini and Richard Strauss, as well as a selection of French operas, including Faust, Carmen and Les Contes d'Hoffman. In all, his repertory contains 23 operatic masterworks, to all of which he brings insight, learning and the most infectious enthusiasm.“One just cannot get enough of âFather Lee'sã brilliant, stimulating, thought-provoking insights...I feel there is no one more knowledgeable or qualified in the entire field of opera commentary. No one.”– The Opera Quarterly

Featuring a collection of one hundred engaging stories and insightful commentaries, this guide delves into the world of opera. It offers readers a rich exploration of various operas, highlighting significant themes, character arcs, and historical contexts. Each entry provides a unique perspective, making it an invaluable resource for both opera enthusiasts and newcomers. The blend of narrative and analysis fosters a deeper appreciation for the art form, inviting readers to experience opera in a fresh and enlightening way.

This book and accompanying CD delve into the masterpieces of instrumental music, offering insights into the lives and techniques of renowned composers. It explores the historical context and significance of key works, enhancing the listener's appreciation through guided listening experiences. The interactive format encourages readers to engage with the music, fostering a deeper understanding of the artistry involved. Ideal for both music enthusiasts and students, it serves as a comprehensive resource for unlocking the intricacies of great instrumental compositions.

(Limelight). Commentary on and a concise, lucid interpretation of the opera world's most complex masterwork, expanded from the author's popular intermission talks during Met Opera broadcasts. "Anyone, whether knowledgeable or not, will profit by reading it..." Opera Quarterly

Virgil's Georgics, often overshadowed by the Aeneid, is explored through a Jungian lens in this insightful analysis. The author combines recent English commentaries with insights from renowned German scholars, presenting a clear literary and historical context. Each of the four georgics is examined in detail, highlighting the significance of the Orpheus myth. The poem is portrayed as Virgil's tribute to Augustus, offering essential wisdom on nature and human nature crucial for effective leadership in the renewed Roman state.

The book offers a year-by-year exploration of cinema history, featuring concise reviews of ten standout films from each year starting in 1935, alongside a discussion of fifty influential films prior. Drawing from the author's experiences with notable filmmakers in the 1970s, it combines insightful commentary with a humorous tone. The concluding chapters highlight ten of the greatest films, including classics like Grand Illusion and Lawrence of Arabia, creating a comprehensive and engaging tribute to the art of film.