This is a groundbreaking collection of works about leading writers from the social political and artistic worlds. Step behind the glory-and-glamour enchantment of grand opera with this candid look at life in the opera world. "Life in Opera: Truth Tempo and Soul" is a collection of encounters with great stars and personalities that shape and enhance the opera universe of today. In Part I: The Interviews - the conversations take centre stage. From their earliest sparks of passion for opera to the exploration of their voices, from the unflinching devotion to their art to the development of personal philosophies about singing and life, the singers open the door to their world with uninhibited frankness. The administrators discuss the paths that led them to become the protectors and nurturers of this art form. The conductors confirm the complex roles they play, while the film directors and fashion designers describe their exciting contributions to opera. Interviews include Placido Domingo, James Levine, Peter Gelb, Joseph Volpe, Renee Fleming, Ramon Vargas and over twenty others. In Part II: Author's Corner - join the author on her surprising journey through the opera world as she recounts the unconventional and at times amusing path where she met and came to know the stars of the lyric universe.