Composer

:

Gustav Holst

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1929 - 1930

Average_duration

:

24:48

The Wandering Scholar is an opera composed by Gustav Holst in 1918. The plot revolves around a wandering scholar who visits a small village and becomes involved in a love triangle between a young woman and her jealous husband. The opera is set in rural England during the 18th century. The opera is divided into three movements. The first movement introduces the characters and sets the scene. The wandering scholar arrives in the village and is welcomed by the villagers. He meets the young woman, Alison, and her husband, Jack. Jack is jealous of the scholar's attention to his wife and becomes increasingly hostile towards him. The second movement focuses on the love triangle between Alison, Jack, and the scholar. Alison is torn between her love for the scholar and her loyalty to her husband. Jack becomes increasingly violent and threatens to kill the scholar. In the end, Alison chooses to stay with her husband, and the scholar leaves the village. The third movement is a reflection on the events that have taken place. The villagers discuss the wandering scholar and his impact on their lives. They realize that he has taught them valuable lessons about love and forgiveness. The Wandering Scholar premiered on June 4, 1934, at the Royal College of Music in London. The opera was well-received by audiences and critics alike. It is considered one of Holst's most successful operas. The opera is characterized by its use of folk melodies and simple harmonies. Holst was known for his interest in English folk music, and this is evident in The Wandering Scholar. The opera also features a small orchestra, which adds to the intimate and rustic feel of the piece. Overall, The Wandering Scholar is a charming and poignant opera that explores themes of love, jealousy, and forgiveness. Its simple melodies and rustic setting make it a beloved work of English opera.

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