Composer

:

Alfredo Catalani

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1888

Publication Date

:

1889

First Performance

:

Feb 16, 1890

Average_duration

:

121:07

Alfredo Catalani's opera 'Loreley' is a three-act opera that was composed in 1890. The opera is based on the German legend of the Lorelei, a siren who lures sailors to their death with her singing. The libretto was written by Luigi Illica, who also wrote the libretto for Puccini's 'La Bohème'. The opera premiered on February 16, 1890, at the Teatro Regio in Turin, Italy. The premiere was a success, and the opera was well-received by both audiences and critics. The opera was later performed in other cities in Italy and in other countries, including Germany and the United States. The first act of the opera takes place on the banks of the Rhine River, where a group of fishermen are singing and drinking. The Loreley appears and sings a song that enchants the fishermen, causing them to forget their work and fall under her spell. The Loreley is in love with a knight named Walter, who is engaged to a woman named Anna. The Loreley sings a song that causes Walter to fall in love with her, and he leaves Anna to be with the Loreley. The second act takes place in the Loreley's castle, where Walter is living with her. Anna arrives at the castle, disguised as a pilgrim, and confronts Walter about his betrayal. The Loreley becomes jealous and angry, and she orders her guards to kill Anna. Walter tries to stop the guards, but he is overpowered and Anna is killed. The third act takes place on the banks of the Rhine River, where the fishermen are mourning the loss of Anna. The Loreley appears and sings a song that causes Walter to remember his love for Anna. He realizes the error of his ways and begs for forgiveness. The Loreley, realizing that she can never have Walter's love, throws herself into the river and dies. The music of 'Loreley' is characterized by its lush orchestration and lyrical melodies. The opera features several memorable arias and duets, including the Loreley's aria in the first act and the duet between Walter and Anna in the second act. The opera also features several choral numbers, including the fishermen's chorus in the first act and the mourning chorus in the third act. Overall, 'Loreley' is a romantic and tragic opera that explores themes of love, betrayal, and jealousy. The opera's beautiful music and compelling story have made it a popular work in the operatic repertoire.

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