Singers of Italian Opera - The History of a Profession

Adelina Patti was the most highly regarded singer in the 19th century. She earned nearly $5000 a night and had her own railway car. Yet during the same period a minor comic singer would perform for the cost of his food and a pair of shoes to wear on stage. Rosselli''s wide ranging study introduces all the singers who have sung Italian opera from 1600 to the 20th century. Photos.