With his unrivaled ear and unerring sense for the Italian tradition of singing, LEONARDO CIAMPA is one of today's most insightful and effective writers on the topic. The Twilight of Belcanto is unique in the field, combining Ciampa's vast knowledge, keen wit, and penetrating criticism. Rich with both personal anecdotes and historical data, it is an informative yet thoroughly enjoyable read. The Twilight of Belcanto contains an exclusive interview with the great soprano Virginia Zeani. Ms. Zeani was one of the most famous and beloved sopranos in Italy in the 1950s and '60s. Born in Transylvania, Romania, Ms. Zeani's repertoire comprised 70 roles, including La Traviata, which she performed over 600 times. She sang with virtually all of the greats, including Gigli, del Monaco, Corelli, di Stefano, Kraus, Domingo, and Pavarotti. Poulenc chose her to sing Blanche in the world-première of Dialogues of the Carmelites. The Twilight of Belcanto is sure to be considered a classic among books of its genre.