Composer

:

Charles Gounod

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1856 - 1859

Publication Date

:

1859

First Performance

:

Mar 19, 1859

Average_duration

:

155:09

Movement_count

:

51

Movement ....

Faust is an opera composed by Charles Gounod, with a libretto by Jules Barbier and Michel Carré. The opera was first performed on March 19, 1859, at the Théâtre Lyrique in Paris. It is based on Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's play Faust, Part One. The plot of Faust revolves around the titular character, a disillusioned scholar who makes a deal with the devil, Mephistopheles, in exchange for youth and love. Faust falls in love with Marguerite, a young woman from a humble background, and their relationship is complicated by Mephistopheles' interference. Marguerite becomes pregnant and is eventually condemned to death for killing her own child. Faust tries to save her, but she refuses to leave with him, and he is left alone to face the consequences of his actions. The opera is divided into five acts, each with its own distinct musical style and mood. The first act introduces the characters and sets up the central conflict, while the second act features a lively tavern scene and a duet between Faust and Marguerite. The third act is dominated by Marguerite's aria "Il était un roi de Thulé," which is one of the most famous pieces from the opera. The fourth act is the most dramatic, with Marguerite's trial and condemnation, and the final act sees Faust's redemption and salvation. Gounod's music for Faust is characterized by its lyricism and melodic beauty. The opera features a number of memorable arias and duets, including "Salut! demeure chaste et pure," "Avant de quitter ces lieux," and "O nuit d'amour." The score also includes a number of choral pieces, such as the famous "Soldiers' Chorus" in Act IV. Faust was an immediate success upon its premiere, and it remains one of the most popular operas in the repertoire. Its themes of love, temptation, and redemption continue to resonate with audiences today, and its music is beloved for its beauty and emotional power.

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