Composer

:

Hans Pfitzner

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1906

Average_duration

:

98:03

Das Christ-Elflein is an opera in three acts composed by Hans Pfitzner. The opera was composed between 1904 and 1906 and premiered on December 23, 1906, at the Court Opera in Munich. The libretto was written by the composer himself, based on a fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm. The plot of the opera revolves around a young boy named Christ-Elflein, who is the son of a poor woodcutter. One day, while wandering in the forest, he meets the Christ Child, who gives him a golden apple. The boy is overjoyed and decides to take the apple home to his mother. However, on the way, he is accosted by a group of robbers who steal the apple from him. The boy is heartbroken and decides to go to the Christ Child's home to ask for another apple. The first act of the opera takes place in the woodcutter's home, where Christ-Elflein lives with his mother and sister. The boy tells his family about his encounter with the Christ Child and the golden apple. His mother is skeptical, but his sister believes him. The boy then sets out on his journey to the Christ Child's home. The second act takes place in the forest, where Christ-Elflein meets a group of children who are also on their way to see the Christ Child. They sing and dance together, and the boy tells them about his quest for another golden apple. The children then lead him to the Christ Child's home, where he is welcomed by angels and given another golden apple. The third act takes place back in the woodcutter's home, where Christ-Elflein returns with the golden apple. His mother is amazed and believes him now. The boy then tells his family about his journey and the kindness of the Christ Child. The opera ends with a chorus of angels singing about the joy of Christmas. The music of Das Christ-Elflein is characterized by its lush harmonies, lyrical melodies, and use of folk tunes. The opera is divided into three movements, each of which is marked by a change in mood and tempo. The first movement is slow and contemplative, the second is lively and dance-like, and the third is triumphant and joyful. Overall, Das Christ-Elflein is a charming and heartwarming opera that celebrates the spirit of Christmas and the power of faith. It has remained a popular work in the operatic repertoire and is often performed during the holiday season.

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