This volume addresses the requirement for a portable, accessible, and comprehensive reference guide covering the history, terminology, and key figures of the operatic tradition. Compiled by Harold Rosenthal and John Warrack, the text synthesizes biographical data, plot summaries, and technical definitions into a singular, condensed format. It serves as a practical tool for students, performers, and enthusiasts seeking quick verification of operatic facts without the need for multi-volume encyclopedias.

Experts and musicologists recognize this dictionary as a reliable, foundational resource for quick reference within the field of opera. Readers frequently note the clarity and conciseness of the entries, making it a standard addition to the libraries of both casual listeners and serious students of the genre.