Composer

:

Umberto Giordano

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1896

Average_duration

:

109:05

Movement_count

:

44

Movement ....

Andrea Chénier is an opera in four acts composed by Umberto Giordano. The opera was composed in 1896 and premiered on March 28, 1896, at La Scala in Milan, Italy. The libretto was written by Luigi Illica and is based on the life of the French poet André Chénier. The opera is set during the French Revolution and tells the story of the poet Andrea Chénier, who falls in love with the aristocrat Maddalena di Coigny. Maddalena's family is targeted by the revolutionaries, and Chénier is forced to choose between his love for Maddalena and his loyalty to the revolution. The first act takes place in the palace of the Countess di Coigny, where a ball is being held. Chénier is introduced to Maddalena and they fall in love. The second act takes place in a Parisian café, where Chénier meets the revolutionary leader Gérard. Gérard is jealous of Chénier's relationship with Maddalena and decides to use his power to have Chénier arrested. The third act takes place in the prison where Chénier is being held. Maddalena visits him and they declare their love for each other. Gérard, who has become disillusioned with the revolution, decides to help Chénier escape. However, Chénier is caught and sentenced to death. The final act takes place on the day of Chénier's execution. Maddalena has disguised herself as a servant and is able to be with Chénier in his final moments. They sing a duet, "Vicino a te," expressing their love for each other. Chénier is executed, and Gérard, who has been watching, realizes the true cost of the revolution. Andrea Chénier is known for its passionate arias and duets, as well as its depiction of the French Revolution. The opera is divided into four movements, each with its own distinct mood and tone. The first movement is light and festive, while the second is dark and brooding. The third movement is emotional and intense, and the final movement is tragic and heartbreaking. Overall, Andrea Chénier is a powerful opera that explores themes of love, loyalty, and the cost of revolution. Its memorable music and dramatic storyline have made it a favorite among opera lovers for over a century.

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