The King & I..

Herbert Breslin & Anne Midgette

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Luciano Pavarotti’s longtime manager and friend tells all.

The King and I is the story of the thirty-six-year-old business relationship between Luciano Pavarotti and his manager, Herbert Breslin, during which Breslin guided what he calls, justifiably, “the greatest career in classical music.” During that career, Breslin moved Pavarotti out of the opera house and onto the concert (and the world) stage and into the arms of a huge mass public. How he and Pavarotti changed the landscape of opera is one of the most significant and entertaining stories in the history of classical music, and Herbert Breslin relates the tale in a brash, candid, witty fashion that is often bitingly frank and profane. He also provides a portrait of his friend and client—“a beautiful, simple, lovely guy who turned into a very determined, aggressive, and somewhat unhappy superstar”—that is by turns affectionate and satirical and full of hilarious details and tales out of school, with Pavarotti emerging as something like the ultimate Italian male. The book is also enlivened by the voices of other players in the soap opera drama that was Pavarotti’s career, and they are no less uncensored than Herbert Breslin. The last word, in fact, comes from none other than Luciano Pavarotti himself!
The King and I is the ultimate backstage book about the greatest opera star of the past century—and it’s a delight to read as well.

The book is also enlivened by the voices of other players in the soap opera drama that was Pavarotti’s career, and they are no less uncensored than Herbert Breslin. The last word, in fact, comes from none other than Luciano Pavarotti himself!
The King and I is the ultimate backstage book about the greatest opera star of the past century—and it’s a delight to read as well.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Early Life and Background: The biography delves into Luciano Pavarotti's early life and upbringing in Modena, Italy, providing context for his later achievements and influences.

  2. Rise to Fame: Pavarotti's meteoric rise to fame as an opera singer is explored, tracing his journey from humble beginnings to international stardom.

  3. Vocal Talent and Technique: The book discusses Pavarotti's vocal talent and technique, highlighting his powerful and resonant voice, as well as his mastery of bel canto singing style.

  4. Operatic Repertoire: Pavarotti's extensive operatic repertoire, which spanned a wide range of roles and composers, is detailed, showcasing his versatility and artistic range.

  5. Collaborations and Partnerships: The biography explores Pavarotti's collaborations and partnerships with other opera singers, conductors, and musicians, illustrating the collaborative nature of the opera world.

  6. Impact on Opera: Pavarotti's impact on the world of opera, including his role in popularizing the art form and bringing it to wider audiences through recordings, television, and live performances, is highlighted.

  7. Personal Life: The book offers insights into Pavarotti's personal life, including his relationships, family dynamics, and the challenges he faced both on and off the stage.

  8. Charitable Work: Pavarotti's philanthropic efforts, including his work with humanitarian organizations and charitable causes, are discussed, reflecting his commitment to using his fame for social good.

  9. Legacy: The biography reflects on Pavarotti's enduring legacy as one of the greatest opera singers of all time, celebrating his contributions to music and culture.

  10. Final Years and Legacy: Finally, the book explores Pavarotti's final years and the legacy he left behind, as well as the continued influence of his voice and artistry on future generations of opera singers and music lovers.

Language English
ISBN-10 0385509723
ISBN-13 9780385509725
No of pages 320
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Doubleday
Published Date 19 Oct 2004

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