Michael William Balfe

Michael William Balfe (1808-1870) was by far the most successful composer of English opera in the mid nineteenth century. His reputation was acknowledged on a national and international basis, and there are almost a thousand entries of songs and operas by him in the British Library catalogue. This book charts the life and operatic output of this prolific and highly popular composer.

William Tyldesley

Contents: Preface; Introduction; 1807-34: Early years and travels; 1834: Back in London - the English opera: constructional units and related matters; 1835: The Siege of Rochelle; 1836-43: The Maid of Artois, Catherine Grey, Diadeste, Joan of Arc, KÃ'olanthe; 1843: The Bohemian Girl; 1844-46: The Daughter of St Mark, The Enchantress, The Bondman; 1847-57: The Maid of Honour, The Sicilian Bride, The Devil's in it! (Letty); 1857-58: The Rose of Castille, Satanella; 1860-63: Bianca, The Bravo's Bride, The Puritan's Daughter, The Armourer of Nantes, Blanche de Nevers; Balfe after the English operas: 1860-70 and later; An overview: The life of Balfe, Unanswered questions, Balfe's English operas; Bibliography; Previously unpublished material; Index.