This Companion provides a biographical, theatrical, and social-cultural background for Verdi's operas, examines in detail important general aspects of its style and method of composing, and synthesizes stylistic themes in discussions of representative works. Aspects of Verdi's milieu, style, creative process, and critical reception are explored in essays by highly reputed specialists. Like others in the series this Companion is aimed primarily at students and opera lovers.
A gripping adventure unfolds as the first American/Jewish Pope teams up with unlikely allies, including the Italian Mafia's leader, a U.S. Senator, a young Jesuit priest, and a covert military operative. Their mission is to thwart drug cartels targeting children, leading to a series of unexpected twists and turns. This mystical suspense novel promises a thrilling ride, culminating in a stunning conclusion that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Perfect for fans of suspenseful storytelling.
Often considered the father of twentieth-century music, Debussy was a visionary whose influence is still felt. This book offers a wide-ranging series of essays on Debussy the man, the musician and composer. It contains insights into his character, his relationship to his Parisian environment and his musical works across all genres, with challenging views on the roles of nature and eroticism in his life and music. His music is considered through the characteristic themes of sonority, rhythm, tonality and form, with closing chapters considering the performance and reception of his music in the first years of the new century and our view of Debussy today as a major force in Western culture. This comprehensive view of Debussy is written by a team of specialists for students and informed music lovers.
The plot revolves around detective Michael Brand, who is hired by the widow of Jamieson Stone, a renowned news anchor believed to have committed suicide on live TV. As Brand investigates, he uncovers evidence of murder linked to a conspiracy involving rogue generals from Russia, China, and the U.S. who aim to install a mind-control weapon on the international space station. With the widow's assistance and support from the mafia and covert operatives, Brand races against time to thwart their dangerous plan.
Work your way through this self-help guide and discover for yourself the power of assuming things will be easier than you thought in a journey of the absurd. These could be some of the most insightful, poignant and ridiculous words ever written by a furry household pet.