Mario Lanza: Singing to the Gods

By Derek Mannering | Foreword by Ellisa Lanza Bregman

Full Title: Mario Lanza: Singing to the Gods
Author: Derek Mannering
Binding: Hardcover
Publisher: University Press of Mississippi (American Made Music Series)
Publication Year: 2005
Printed in: USA
ISBN-13: 9781578067411 / 978-1578067411
ISBN-10: 1578067413
Pages: 280

Book Overview

Mario Lanza (1921-1959) possessed one of the most remarkable tenor voices of all time, rising to worldwide fame in film, recordings, and concerts over a short but dazzling career. Originally trained for the opera stage, Lanza instead became a Hollywood icon, with films such as The Great Caruso setting box office records and inspiring future generations of singers.

His RCA recordings sold in the millions, making him the ultimate crossover artist, blending opera and popular music in a way that remains unmatched. Even today, world-renowned singers—including The Three Tenors—credit Lanza as a major influence.

In Mario Lanza: Singing to the Gods, Derek Mannering presents a richly detailed biography, offering insights into Lanza’s extraordinary voice, career triumphs, and personal struggles. This book is a must-read for music lovers, opera enthusiasts, and fans of classic Hollywood.

Key Features & Insights

• A compelling biography of Mario Lanza, tracing his journey from opera student to Hollywood superstar.

• Explores his legendary voice, musical achievements, and impact on opera and pop culture.

• Behind-the-scenes stories of his films, including The Great Caruso.

• Covers his recording career with RCA, which made him a household name.

• Analyzes his legacy, including his influence on Pavarotti, Domingo, and Carreras.

Interesting Facts About Mario Lanza

He was discovered by conductor Serge Koussevitzky, who called him “Caruso reborn.”
His Hollywood career was meteoric, but he struggled with personal demons.
He remains one of the best-selling classical crossover artists of all time.
Pavarotti credited Lanza’s recordings as a major influence on his own singing.

Who Should Read This Book?

✅ Opera and classical music fans, eager to learn about a legendary tenor.
✅ Fans of Mario Lanza, looking for a well-researched, engaging biography.
✅ Film and music historians, interested in Lanza’s impact on Hollywood and classical music.
✅ Anyone passionate about the golden age of music, particularly the blending of opera and popular culture.

Publisher Information

• Author: Derek Mannering

• Title: Mario Lanza: Singing to the Gods

• Publication Year: 2005

• Publisher: University Press of Mississippi (American Made Music Series)

Share Your Thoughts!

Have you read Mario Lanza: Singing to the Gods? What do you think of Lanza’s impact on music and film? Let us know in the comments!

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