The zarzuela is a distinctive and historic form of Spanish light opera (or rather operetta). After succumbing to foreign influences in the first half of the nineteenth century, it took shape as a national entertainment depicting popular customs, humour, folk melodies and the idioms and inflections of the spoken language. Although the zarzuela reached its zenith during the last decade of the nineteenth century, reflecting the spirit of both Madrid and the traditions of Andalusia, Aragon and Spanish territories overseas, it still endures through the music of composers who lived well into the twentieth century. This selection of Preludes, Overtures and Choruses presents some of the best known pieces of this popular repertoire.