Can anyone recommend an Opera for me?

Question:I have recently started listening to opera and am looking for some recommendations. I like IL Barbiere DI Siviglia (the Barber of Seville) by Rossini and I don't like Don Giovanni.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I have recently started listening to opera and am looking for some recommendations. I like IL Barbiere DI Siviglia (the Barber of Seville) by Rossini and I don't like Don Giovanni.

some others that always popular, and lend themselves to "easy listening":
Carmen, by Georges Bizet
Hansel and Gretel by the original Engelbert Humperdinck
( the Vegas singer just borrowed the name. The family of the composer, in Germany, sued him for slander, and in Germany he is known only as Engelbert)
Magic Flute, by Mozart
La Boheme, by Puccini
La Traviata by Verdi

most CDs have a rather thick booklet, with the text in at least 3 languages, so you can follow along with the story. As a matter of fact, it would be a good idea to read the story first, before you put the music on, since it gives you a handle on what's about to happen...

Boy, are you in for a treat!

Have fun listening, and if you ever do get the chance, go a to a live show. The people who sing live put out so much energy that you get a sort of rush, just by being there.

Don Giovanni isn't really a beginner's opera. I am not a beginner, and I have to admit, the third time around, I had trouble staying awake through it. It is darker and does not suit all tastes. If you like Mozart, and if you like something lighter, then consider The Magic Flute. I don't have a dvd to recommend--I have rented four so far, and they do not meet the perfection of seeing the Royal Opera performance, live. If they come anywhere near your area, I highly suggest trying to get a ticket for it. I don't think you will be disappointed.