This handbook meticulously documents the premiere performances of operas in the United States from 1731 to 1962. It serves as an indispensable resource for scholars, historians, and enthusiasts of American musical theater, providing a comprehensive catalog of operatic debuts across the nation. The work is organized chronologically and by location, detailing the opera title, composer, librettist, premiere date, and the venue where each work was first presented.

This reference work is recognized as a foundational text in the study of American opera history. Its detailed cataloging provides scholars with a crucial tool for tracing the development and dissemination of operatic works within the United States. The meticulous research and comprehensive scope ensure its continued value for academic inquiry and historical documentation.