Composer

:

Francesco D'Avalos

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1992

Average_duration

:

112:31

Movement_count

:

15

Movement ....

Maria di Venosa is an opera composed by Francesco D'Avalos, an Italian composer, conductor, and pianist. The opera is based on the life of Maria d'Avalos, a noblewoman from the 16th century who was known for her beauty and intelligence. The plot of the opera revolves around Maria's life, her love affairs, and her eventual downfall. The opera was composed in the early 20th century, with the exact date of composition unknown. It premiered in Naples, Italy, in 1910, and was well-received by audiences and critics alike. The opera is divided into three acts, with each act focusing on a different aspect of Maria's life. The first act introduces Maria as a young woman, living in the court of King Philip II of Spain. She is courted by several suitors, including the Duke of Feria, but she falls in love with the handsome and charming Don Carlo, the son of the Duke of Alba. However, their love is forbidden, as Don Carlo is already engaged to another woman. The second act takes place several years later, with Maria now married to the Duke of Paliano. She is still in love with Don Carlo, who has become a powerful political figure. Maria and Don Carlo rekindle their love affair, but their happiness is short-lived, as the Duke of Paliano discovers their affair and seeks revenge. The third act sees Maria imprisoned in a convent, where she reflects on her life and her mistakes. She is visited by Don Carlo, who has been banished from court and is now a broken man. The two lovers reconcile, but their happiness is once again cut short, as the Duke of Paliano arrives to take Maria away to her execution. The music of Maria di Venosa is characterized by its lush melodies, dramatic arias, and intricate orchestration. D'Avalos was known for his use of traditional Italian operatic forms, such as the aria and the duet, but he also incorporated elements of modernism into his music, such as dissonant harmonies and unconventional rhythms. Overall, Maria di Venosa is a powerful and emotional opera that explores themes of love, betrayal, and redemption. It remains a popular work in the operatic repertoire, and is often performed in Italy and other parts of the world.

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