Composer

:

Giacomo Meyerbeer

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1837

Average_duration

:

4:10

Giacomo Meyerbeer's 'La Fille de l'air' is an opera in three acts that premiered on February 14, 1837, at the Opéra-Comique in Paris. The libretto was written by Eugène Scribe and Charles-Gaspard Delestre-Poirson. The opera tells the story of a young woman named Isabelle, who disguises herself as a man to become a pilot and win the love of her employer, the wealthy Count de Montgommery. The first act of 'La Fille de l'air' opens with a lively chorus of peasants celebrating the arrival of the Count de Montgommery. Isabelle, who works as a servant in the Count's household, is immediately smitten with him. However, she knows that as a woman, she cannot pursue her love openly. Instead, she decides to disguise herself as a man and become a pilot, hoping to impress the Count with her daring feats. The second act takes place at an airfield, where Isabelle has become a skilled pilot. She performs a series of dangerous stunts, impressing the crowd and the Count. However, her secret is eventually revealed when her disguise falls off during a flight. The Count is shocked but ultimately forgives her, and they declare their love for each other. The final act takes place at the Count's estate, where Isabelle's true identity is revealed to the other characters. Despite some initial shock and confusion, everyone ultimately accepts her for who she is, and she and the Count are able to marry. One of the most notable characteristics of 'La Fille de l'air' is its use of spectacle and special effects. The opera features elaborate sets and costumes, as well as a number of impressive aerial stunts performed by the actors. Additionally, the music is characterized by Meyerbeer's signature blend of grand opera and French opéra comique, with a mix of lively choruses, romantic arias, and dramatic ensembles. Overall, 'La Fille de l'air' is a charming and entertaining opera that showcases Meyerbeer's skill as a composer and Scribe's talent as a librettist. Its combination of romance, comedy, and spectacle make it a beloved work of the French operatic repertoire.

More....