Famous Singers of To-day and Yesterday

Spanning the birth of public opera in early‑17th‑century Florence to the celebrated stages of the late 1800s, this compact volume surveys the most renowned voices that have shaped Western vocal art. It brings together vivid portraits of legendary figures— from the early Italian virtuosos to the dazzling prima donnas of the Victorian era—while also acknowledging a handful of exceptional oratorio and concert singers whose fame crossed genre borders.

The book offers concise biographical sketches complemented by a chronological table that maps the rise of each star, drawing on classic references such as Grove’s Dictionary and contemporary newspaper accounts. Illustrated throughout, the work balances scholarly detail with an accessible tone, making it a handy companion for students, enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the evolution of celebrated singers and the cultural currents that propelled them.