Chapter 23:Romantic Opera: Italy

Italy

• The golden age of opera with composers such as Rossini, Bellini, Verdi, Wagner, Bizet, and Puccini

• Bel canto: “Beautiful singing”– Term coined by Rossini– Early creators of bel canto include Donizetti and

Bellini– Emphasis on beautiful vocal melodies– Orchestra provides simple harmonic support– Exalted the leading opera singers – Prima donna or diva: Lead soprano, usually the

heroine

Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901)• Most popular opera composer throughout Europe• His operas are performed more than any others • Early operas supported Italian nationalism

– Promoted a united Italy– Viva VERDI (Vittorio Emanuele Re d’Italia)

• Dramas turned to domestic themes and personal conflict

• Opera standards include: Rigoletto (1851), La traviata (1853), Il trovatore (1853), Aida (1871)

Verdi’s Dramaturgy and Musical Style

• Conflict – personal or national – the root of every emotion

• Clear expression of emotion• Emotional states almost melodramatic• Intense passion and nonstop action

– Recitativo accompagnato: Orchestra accompanies the recitative; Smooth transitions between recitative and aria

– Arias push singers to the utmost of their range– Bel canto style

La traviata (1853)

• “The Woman Gone Astray”• Based on a story (Camille) by Alexandre Dumas the

younger• Pits passionate love against middle-class morality• “Un di felice”

– Gala party at the end of the first act– Alfredo and Violetta sing to each other

La traviata, Act I, Scene 6•A Scena– Slow aria (“Ah fors´è lui”)– Recitative accompagnata (“Follie!”)– Cabaletta (“Sempre libera”)• A fast-paced concluding aria• Virtuosity serves a dramatic purpose• Allows character to rush off stage