Composer

:

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1898

Publication Date

:

1899

First Performance

:

Oct 22, 1899

Average_duration

:

149:37

Movement_count

:

35

Movement ....

The Tsar's Bride is an opera composed by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov in 1899. The plot is set in 16th century Russia and revolves around the love triangle between Tsar Ivan IV (Ivan the Terrible), his favorite boyar Grigory Gryaznoy, and the beautiful Marfa Sobakina. Gryaznoy is in love with Marfa, but she is already engaged to another boyar, Lykov. Gryaznoy, consumed by jealousy, decides to use his influence with the Tsar to have Lykov arrested and executed, hoping to win Marfa's love. However, Marfa is devastated by Lykov's death and refuses to marry Gryaznoy. The Tsar, who has also fallen in love with Marfa, decides to marry her himself, but she is still in love with Lykov and cannot bring herself to accept the Tsar's proposal. In the end, Gryaznoy confesses his crime and is sentenced to death, while Marfa is left alone to mourn her lost love. The opera premiered on November 22, 1899, at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia. It was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and has since become one of Rimsky-Korsakov's most popular works. The music is characterized by its lush orchestration, colorful harmonies, and folk-inspired melodies. The opera is divided into four acts, each with its own distinct musical style and mood. The first act is set in the Tsar's palace and features grand choral and orchestral music, as well as a lively folk dance. The second act takes place in Gryaznoy's house and is more intimate, with lyrical arias and duets. The third act is set in a tavern and features lively folk music and dancing, as well as a haunting aria sung by Marfa. The final act takes place in the Tsar's palace and features a dramatic confrontation between Gryaznoy and Marfa, as well as a grand chorus and orchestral finale. Overall, The Tsar's Bride is a powerful and emotional opera that explores themes of love, jealousy, and betrayal. Its rich musical language and vivid characters have made it a beloved work of the Russian operatic repertoire.

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