Rating: 
Summary: Opinionated and obsessional
Review: This book makes some good points, but the author is quite opinionated (for example, his view is the "correct" view of what a good recording is) so that his advice is misleading. He also does an obsessional counting of words in the TRANSLATION of the Ring, which is not very useful since the original is in German and different translators render Wagner's words differently. I read the book through once and never returned to it, which says something about its usefulness. In contrast, for example, the books by Bryan Magee, I return to again and again for fresh insights into the Ring. Overall, this book is a disappointment and probably not worth buying. It will just take up space on your bookshelf.
Rating: 
Summary: A Useful Resource
Review: Those considering buying this book should be aware of what it is: a concordance written by a non-specialist. Readers seeking interpretive essays or reviews may be disappointed.That point made, this book is a wonderful tool to improve one's understanding of Wagner's Ring. The concondance lists the appearance of all the important themes, issues, emotions, and characters. This would be particularly useful for students or others anaylzing the work. The organization and presentation of this section is clear. The addition of plot summaries, reviews of productions, and various discussions create a well-rounded volume. The fact that the book is written by a non-specialist is most refreshing: discussions of characters, plot developments, and so forth are wonderfully lucid. They are insightful, without being burdened by some of the heavy jargon found in some works. Every page reveals the author's love and respect for his subject. His reviews of stage productions and sound recordings are informative and fresh. Here again, common sense prevails over musicological jargon. In short, this book gives a wealth of practical knowledge about Wagner's vast opera cycle, and is a pleasure to read.
Rating:
Summary: For broadening one's understanding of a timeless classic
Review: Wagner's Ring, written and compiled by J.K. Holman, is an exhaustive listener's companion to the Wagnerian cycle of operas, intended to specifically delineate the subtle nuances of the musical plot. From mythological sources of the Ring operas to a full English translation of each character's lines to a close look at how the opera is stage, Wagner's Ring takes the reader through every possible aspect of the opera short of actually listening to it and seeing it performed. An excellent reference for broadening one's understanding of a timeless classic, Wagner's Ring is a strongly recommended addition to personal, academic, and community library operatic music history and reference collections.
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