Reviews for Singers of the Century, Vol. 3

The average rating for Singers of the Century, Vol. 3 based on 2 reviews is 4 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2015-11-02 00:00:00 Frank J Hnatko A very good read. However I must admit the non-linear arrangement of the chapters took some time to get used to. In the book Nilsson mentions many of her colleagues in the operas which she performed from minor productions to major ones, less well-known singers to very well-known singers. I admit it was somewhat of a chore to read the numerous cast listings but I think I understand why she did it. She loved her colleagues (most of them, at least) and this was a way for her to remember them. The book has 4 chapters that focus on a central character: Rudolf Bing ("Rudolf Bing"), Franco Corelli ("The Battle of the High Cs"), Miss N ("Fans, Fanatics, and Experts"), and her husband Bertil ("Bertil, My Number One Admirer"). She also has 4 chapters on locations: Vienna, Bayreuth (also overseas productions), Buenos Aires, and Italy. These 8 chapters are ABSOLUTELY fascinating and entertaining to read. There are many excerpts of reviews and quotes of people praising her. Some readers find it a turn off; but I found them very informative. I especially enjoy Karl Böhm's spontaneous exclamation during a 1965 rehearsal for Bayreuth Götterdämmerung, "such a Brünnhilde I have not heard in forty years!" How this made me wish I were there! If there is one thing that I find disappointing, it is that she reveals so little about herself! She devoted barely 1 page concerning her mother's death. She did not mention her father's death at all. She made no mention about children. However overall, it was a great read. Highly recommended.

Review # 2 was written on 2013-08-07 00:00:00 Daniel George Truly inspiring. Should be required reading for music majors.