Composer

:

Eugeno Díaz de la Pena

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

"Benvenuto Cellini" is an opera composed by Eugenio Díaz de la Peña, with a libretto by Lluís Millet and Josep Maria de Sagarra. The opera is based on the life of the famous Italian sculptor and goldsmith, Benvenuto Cellini. The opera was composed in 1936 and premiered on March 7, 1937, at the Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona. The opera is divided into two acts and is set in Rome during the 16th century. The plot revolves around the life of Benvenuto Cellini, who is struggling to complete a statue of Perseus for the Duke of Florence. Cellini is in love with Teresa, the daughter of the papal treasurer, but she is already engaged to another man. Cellini's rival, Fieramosca, is also in love with Teresa and is determined to win her hand. The first act of the opera begins with Cellini struggling to complete the statue of Perseus. He is constantly interrupted by his workers, who are more interested in drinking and partying than working. Cellini is also being pressured by the Duke of Florence to complete the statue on time. Meanwhile, Fieramosca is plotting to sabotage Cellini's work and win Teresa's hand. In the second act, Cellini is arrested for fighting with Fieramosca and is sentenced to death. However, he is given a chance to redeem himself by completing the statue of Perseus in just one night. With the help of his workers and Teresa, Cellini is able to complete the statue just in time. The Duke of Florence is impressed with Cellini's work and pardons him. Cellini and Teresa are finally able to be together. The music of "Benvenuto Cellini" is characterized by its lively and energetic rhythms, as well as its use of traditional Italian melodies. The opera also features a number of colorful and memorable characters, including the flamboyant Cellini, the scheming Fieramosca, and the beautiful Teresa. Overall, "Benvenuto Cellini" is a lively and entertaining opera that captures the spirit of the Renaissance era. Its premiere in Barcelona was a great success, and the opera has since been performed in theaters around the world.

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