Composer

:

Alexey Nikolayevich Verstovsky

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1835

Average_duration

:

63:21

'Askold's Tomb' is an opera composed by Alexey Nikolayevich Verstovsky in 1835. The plot of the opera is based on the legend of Askold, a legendary prince of Kiev who was killed by his brother, Dir, in the 9th century. The story revolves around the love triangle between Askold, his wife Olga, and Dir. The opera is divided into three acts. The first act opens with a chorus of people mourning the death of Askold. Olga, Askold's wife, is grief-stricken and sings a beautiful aria expressing her love for her husband. Dir, Askold's brother, enters and tries to console Olga, but she rejects him. Dir then sings a powerful aria expressing his jealousy and hatred towards Askold. In the second act, Dir plots to kill Olga so that he can take over the throne of Kiev. He sends his soldiers to capture her, but she manages to escape. Olga then sings a haunting aria about her fear and desperation. Askold's ghost appears to Olga and tells her that he will always be with her. Olga then sings a beautiful duet with Askold's ghost, expressing her love for him. The third act opens with a chorus of people celebrating Dir's coronation as the new prince of Kiev. Olga enters and confronts Dir, accusing him of killing Askold. Dir denies the accusation and orders his soldiers to arrest Olga. However, Askold's ghost appears again and reveals the truth about his death. Dir is then killed by his own soldiers, and Olga is crowned as the new princess of Kiev. 'Askold's Tomb' premiered on January 27, 1835, at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. The opera was well-received by the audience and critics alike. Verstovsky's music is characterized by its lyrical melodies, dramatic arias, and powerful choruses. The opera also features a number of folk songs and dances, which add to its authenticity and charm. Overall, 'Askold's Tomb' is a beautiful and moving opera that tells a timeless story of love, jealousy, and betrayal. Verstovsky's music captures the emotions of the characters and brings the story to life. The opera remains a popular work in the Russian repertoire and is still performed today.

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