Love Is A Catastrophe

Italian only, with an introductory plot synopsis in English. Norma was first performed at the Teatro alla Scala in Milan on 26th December 1831. The work is neoclassic in style, elegant and with an undeniably romantic feel, with a gentle naturalistic background, but where the Roman spoirit can still de felt despite the stranght of the ancient trees. The two levels of the story-line develop within these limits: the public story of the contrast between Druids and Romans; the private plot, where Norma, Adalgisa and Pollione are caught up in passion and love. With its pressing implacable advance, the two levelsare destined to clash in this story, resulting in the tragic conclusion of the catastrophe: the resignation of the protagonists who, by deliberatley choosing death, rediscover their love in a fine sublime form.Bellini's absolute masterpiece, Norma had a great influence on opera composers during the 1800s, including Verdi and even Wagner, who conducted this opera in Riga (Latvia) in 1837.

Just knowing how to play a chord is never enough to make good music. Voice leading - moving individual chord voices smoothly from one chord to the next - is an essential skill for jazz guitarists. This book/CD pack by Berklee associate professor of guitar John Thomas shows you how to voice lead both chord tones and tensions, and will help you add a new level of sophistication to your music. This book is designed for intermediate to advanced guitar players. The accompanying CD features jazz tunes, blues and rhythm changes that you can play along with.