Riccardo Muti writes and speaks about conducting, opera and the traditions of Italian musical performance. First the Music, Then the Words is an autobiographical account of his development from Naples through major appointments at La Scala, the Philadelphia Orchestra and other institutions, with particular attention to opera, rehearsal discipline and relationships with orchestras. Published conversations also return frequently to Verdi, Mozart and the importance of serving the score rather than treating the conductor as the main spectacle. Muti's prose is direct, traditional and performance-centred, combining career memory with strong views on phrasing, text and theatrical clarity. His work fits conductor memoir, opera, Verdi studies and classical performance, particularly for readers interested in the practical authority and responsibilities of a maestro. Read more Less
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