Composer

:

Boris Blacher

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Oratorio

Average_duration

:

59:25

Boris Blacher's "Grand Inquisitor, Op. 21" is a one-act opera that premiered on June 25, 1950, at the Deutsche Oper Berlin. The libretto, written by the composer, is based on a scene from Fyodor Dostoevsky's novel "The Brothers Karamazov." The opera consists of three movements and lasts approximately 45 minutes. The first movement, "The Inquisitor's Monologue," features a solo baritone singing the words of the Grand Inquisitor, who is questioning Jesus Christ about his return to Earth. The music is dark and ominous, with dissonant harmonies and a driving rhythm that reflects the Inquisitor's power and authority. The second movement, "The Temptation," features a soprano singing the words of a young girl who is tempted by the devil. The music is lighter and more lyrical than the first movement, with a playful melody that reflects the girl's innocence and naivety. The third movement, "The Miracle," features a chorus singing the words of the crowd who witness a miracle performed by Jesus. The music is triumphant and joyful, with soaring melodies and rich harmonies that reflect the crowd's awe and wonder. Overall, "Grand Inquisitor, Op. 21" is a powerful and dramatic work that explores themes of power, authority, and faith. Blacher's music is modern and innovative, with a unique blend of tonality and atonality that reflects the complex emotions and ideas of the characters. The opera remains a significant work in the repertoire of 20th-century opera.

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