Composer

:

Ferruccio Busoni

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1917

Publication Date

:

1918

First Performance

:

May 11, 1917

Average_duration

:

74:04

Movement_count

:

24

Movement ....

Turandot is an opera composed by Ferruccio Busoni, based on the play of the same name by Carlo Gozzi. The opera was composed between 1917 and 1924, and premiered on November 11, 1926, at the Teatro alla Scala in Milan. The plot of Turandot revolves around the titular character, a cold-hearted princess who challenges her suitors to answer three riddles. If they fail, they are executed. The opera begins with the Prince of Persia being led to his execution, and the arrival of a new suitor, Calaf. Calaf is determined to win Turandot's hand, despite the danger. He successfully answers the riddles, but Turandot still refuses to marry him. Calaf then offers Turandot a challenge of his own: if she can guess his name by dawn, he will willingly give up his life. Turandot accepts the challenge, and Calaf spends the night taunting her with his name. In the end, Turandot is unable to guess his name, and Calaf reveals it to her. Turandot is overcome with emotion and agrees to marry him. The opera is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is characterized by a sense of foreboding and danger, as the Prince of Persia is led to his execution and Calaf arrives to take his place. The second movement is more romantic, as Calaf sings the famous aria "Nessun Dorma" and attempts to win Turandot's heart. The third movement is more triumphant, as Calaf emerges victorious and Turandot finally gives in to her feelings. Busoni's music for Turandot is characterized by its use of exotic scales and harmonies, as well as its complex orchestration. The opera also features a large chorus, which is used to great effect in the climactic moments of the third movement. Overall, Turandot is a powerful and dramatic opera that showcases Busoni's skill as a composer. Its premiere was a great success, and it has since become a staple of the operatic repertoire.

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