Composer

:

Jules Massenet

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

First Performance

:

1894

Average_duration

:

43:42

Movement_count

:

17

Movement ....

La Navarraise is an opera composed by Jules Massenet in 1894. The plot is set in Navarre, a region in northern Spain, during the Carlist Wars of the 19th century. The story revolves around Anita, a young woman who is in love with Araquil, a soldier fighting for the Carlists. However, she is also pursued by Garrido, a wealthy landowner who wants to marry her. Anita's love for Araquil is tested when she learns that he has been captured by the enemy and is being held for ransom. In order to save him, she agrees to sell herself to Garrido, who promises to pay the ransom. However, when Araquil is finally released, he discovers what Anita has done and is heartbroken. In the end, both Araquil and Garrido are killed in battle, leaving Anita alone and grief-stricken. La Navarraise premiered on June 20, 1894, at the Opéra-Comique in Paris. It was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and quickly became one of Massenet's most popular works. The opera is composed of two acts, each divided into several scenes. The music is characterized by Massenet's signature style, which blends elements of French Romanticism with Italian verismo. The score is full of lush melodies, dramatic arias, and stirring choruses, all of which serve to heighten the emotional intensity of the story. The first act of La Navarraise opens with a lively chorus of soldiers, who are preparing to go into battle. Anita enters, singing a plaintive aria about her love for Araquil. Garrido then appears, and tries to convince Anita to marry him. She refuses, and he leaves in a rage. The scene then shifts to a battlefield, where Araquil is captured by the enemy. Anita learns of his capture, and decides to sell herself to Garrido in order to raise the ransom money. The act ends with a powerful duet between Anita and Garrido, in which she agrees to his terms. The second act opens with a festive chorus of villagers, who are celebrating the end of the war. Anita enters, dressed in finery, and is greeted by Garrido. However, when Araquil is finally released, he discovers what Anita has done and is devastated. He confronts her, and they sing a heart-wrenching duet in which he accuses her of betraying their love. The act ends with a battle scene, in which both Araquil and Garrido are killed. Overall, La Navarraise is a powerful and emotional opera that showcases Massenet's skill as a composer. Its themes of love, sacrifice, and betrayal are timeless, and its music is both beautiful and stirring. Despite its popularity at the time of its premiere, the opera is now relatively obscure, and is rarely performed outside of France. However, it remains a testament to Massenet's talent and legacy as one of the great composers of the late 19th century.

More....