Composer

:

Jules Massenet

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Incidental Music

First Performance

:

1900

Phèdre is an opera in three acts composed by Jules Massenet. The opera premiered on March 1, 1902, at the Opéra-Comique in Paris. The libretto was written by Massenet's frequent collaborator, Louis Gallet, based on the play Phèdre by Jean Racine. The opera is divided into three acts, each with its own distinct mood and musical style. The first act is set in the palace of Theseus, the king of Athens. The music is grand and majestic, reflecting the regal setting. The second act takes place in the countryside, where Phèdre, Theseus's wife, confesses her love for her stepson, Hippolyte. The music is more intimate and passionate, reflecting the characters' emotions. The third act takes place back in the palace, where Phèdre's guilt and shame lead to her downfall. The music is dark and dramatic, reflecting the tragic ending. The opera's main character, Phèdre, is a complex and conflicted woman. She is torn between her love for Hippolyte and her loyalty to her husband, Theseus. Her emotions are reflected in the music, which ranges from tender and romantic to dark and brooding. The other characters in the opera are also well-developed, with their own distinct personalities and motivations. Overall, Phèdre is a powerful and emotional opera that showcases Massenet's skill as a composer. The music is lush and expressive, with a wide range of styles and moods. The opera's themes of love, betrayal, and tragedy are timeless and universal, making it a classic of the operatic repertoire.

More....