Composer

:

Dominick Argento

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1983

Average_duration

:

41:08

Movement_count

:

13

Movement ....

The Andrée Expedition is a chamber opera composed by Dominick Argento. It premiered on October 22, 1984, at the Minnesota Opera in Minneapolis. The opera is based on the true story of the ill-fated attempt by Swedish explorer Salomon August Andrée to reach the North Pole by balloon in 1897. The opera is divided into three movements. The first movement, "The Dream," introduces the characters and their motivations for embarking on the expedition. The second movement, "The Journey," follows the three explorers as they struggle to survive in the harsh Arctic environment. The final movement, "The Vision," depicts the final moments of the expedition and the aftermath of their tragic end. Argento's music is characterized by its lyrical melodies and lush harmonies. The score features a small chamber orchestra, including strings, woodwinds, and percussion. The vocal writing is demanding, with soaring arias and intricate ensemble passages. The libretto, written by playwright James Schevill, is based on historical documents and personal diaries of the expedition members. The characters are portrayed with depth and complexity, exploring themes of ambition, heroism, and mortality. The Andrée Expedition has been praised for its emotional power and dramatic intensity. It has been performed by opera companies throughout the United States and Europe, and has been recorded by the Minnesota Opera. The opera stands as a testament to the human spirit and the enduring quest for exploration and discovery.

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