Composer

:

Jules Massenet

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

First Performance

:

1912

Average_duration

:

128:50

'Roma' is an opera composed by Jules Massenet, which premiered on March 17, 1869, at the Théâtre National de l'Opéra-Comique in Paris. The libretto was written by Henri Cain and was based on a play by Alexandre Dumas. The opera is set in Rome during the reign of Emperor Nero and tells the story of the love between the sculptor, Horace, and the vestal virgin, Julia. The first movement of the opera opens with a chorus of Roman soldiers, who are preparing for battle. The second movement introduces Horace, who is working on a statue of Nero. He is interrupted by Julia, who has come to see him. They sing a duet expressing their love for each other, but Julia reminds Horace that she is a vestal virgin and cannot marry. The third movement takes place in the temple of Vesta, where Julia is praying. She is interrupted by the high priestess, who tells her that she has been chosen to light the sacred fire. Julia is hesitant, but the priestess insists, and Julia reluctantly agrees. In the fourth movement, Horace and Julia meet in secret. They sing a passionate duet, but their happiness is short-lived as they are discovered by the high priestess. Julia is sentenced to death for breaking her vows as a vestal virgin. The fifth movement takes place in the Colosseum, where Julia is about to be executed. Horace begs Nero for mercy, but Nero refuses. Julia is led to her death, and Horace is left alone to mourn her. The final movement of the opera is a grand chorus, in which the Roman soldiers celebrate their victory in battle. Horace joins in the celebration, but his thoughts are with Julia, and he sings a final aria expressing his grief. 'Roma' is characterized by Massenet's lush and romantic score, which features soaring melodies and rich orchestration. The opera also features a strong chorus, which plays an important role in the drama. The libretto is well-crafted, with strong characterizations and a compelling storyline. Overall, 'Roma' is a powerful and moving opera that showcases Massenet's talents as a composer. Its premiere was a great success, and it remains a popular work in the operatic repertoire.

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