Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901) is one of Italy's most celebrated opera composers. His best-known operas include Rigoletto, Il trovatore, La traviata and Aida.

Aida is, for most of us, the quintessence of Ancient Egypt, but it is certainly not just for archaeologists. Michael Rose points out that it is really about patriotism - an issue of burning importance to Verdi and his contemporaries. Music critic William Mann reflects that even a short look at the score reveals subtleties that repay careful listening. And Verdi's own letters show the germs of the opera grow from suggestion to creation.

Contents: Verdi's 'Egyptian business', Michael Rose; 'Aida' - Text and Music, William Mann; The Genesis of 'Aida', Roger Parker; Aida: Libretto by Antonio Ghislanzoni; Aida: English version by Edmund Tracey

Brilliantly produced and superb value.

All these will provide the new opera-goer with food for thought.

Wholehearted recommendation of this valuable new series.