Composer

:

Pauline Viardot

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1904

Average_duration

:

62:18

Cendrillon is an opera composed by Pauline Viardot, a French composer, singer, and pianist. The opera is based on the classic fairy tale of Cinderella, and it was first performed in 1904 at the Opéra-Comique in Paris. The plot of Cendrillon follows the story of Cinderella, a young girl who is mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters. Despite her difficult circumstances, Cinderella remains kind and hopeful, and she dreams of attending the royal ball. With the help of her fairy godmother, Cinderella is able to attend the ball and capture the heart of the prince. However, she must leave the ball before midnight, and the prince is left with only a glass slipper as a clue to her identity. The prince searches the kingdom for the owner of the slipper, and eventually finds Cinderella, who he marries and lives happily ever after with. Viardot's opera is divided into four movements, each of which corresponds to a different act in the story. The first movement introduces the characters and sets the stage for the story. The second movement takes place at the royal ball, where Cinderella meets the prince and falls in love. The third movement follows the prince's search for Cinderella, and the fourth movement concludes with their marriage and happy ending. One of the characteristics of Viardot's opera is its use of French Romanticism, which is characterized by its emphasis on emotion and individualism. Viardot's music is also known for its use of folk melodies and dance rhythms, which give the opera a lively and playful feel. Additionally, Viardot's opera features a strong female protagonist in Cinderella, who is able to overcome her difficult circumstances and find happiness through her own strength and perseverance. Overall, Cendrillon is a charming and whimsical opera that captures the magic and romance of the classic fairy tale. Its premiere in 1904 was well-received, and it has since become a beloved classic in the world of opera.

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