Composer

:

Jerónimo Giménez

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Zarzuela

Compose Date

:

1896

Average_duration

:

3:27

"El Baile de Luis Alonso" is a zarzuela, a Spanish operatic genre, composed by Jerónimo Giménez in 1897. The plot revolves around the love story of Luis Alonso, a young man who falls in love with the beautiful and flirtatious Carolina. However, their love is threatened by the jealousy of Don Eugenio, Carolina's father, who disapproves of their relationship. The story takes place in Seville, Spain, during the 19th century. The opera is divided into two acts, each with several movements. The first act begins with a prelude, followed by a lively dance called "La Jota." The second movement is a romantic duet between Luis Alonso and Carolina, called "Dúo de la Africana." The third movement is a solo by Carolina, "Romanza de Carolina," in which she expresses her love for Luis Alonso. The act ends with a dramatic ensemble piece, "Coro de los Carboneros," in which the coal miners sing about their hard work and their love for their homeland. The second act begins with a festive dance, "La Seguidilla," followed by a solo by Don Eugenio, "Romanza de Don Eugenio," in which he expresses his anger and jealousy towards Luis Alonso. The next movement is a lively dance, "La Jota de la Dolores," performed by the gypsy Dolores. The final movement is the famous "Intermedio," a beautiful orchestral piece that has become one of the most recognizable pieces of Spanish classical music. "El Baile de Luis Alonso" premiered on March 27, 1897, at the Teatro de la Zarzuela in Madrid, Spain. The opera was an instant success and has since become one of the most popular zarzuelas in the Spanish repertoire. The music is characterized by its lively rhythms, beautiful melodies, and colorful orchestration, which evoke the spirit of traditional Spanish music. Overall, "El Baile de Luis Alonso" is a charming and romantic opera that captures the essence of Spanish culture and music. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring appeal of this beloved genre.

More....