Composer

:

Vincenzo Bellini

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1831

Average_duration

:

153:03

Movement_count

:

34

Movement ....

'Norma' is an opera in two acts composed by Vincenzo Bellini in 1831. The libretto was written by Felice Romani, based on the play 'Norma, ou L'infanticide' by Alexandre Soumet. The opera premiered on December 26, 1831, at La Scala in Milan, Italy. The plot of 'Norma' is set in ancient Gaul, where the Druid priestess Norma is torn between her duty to her people and her love for the Roman proconsul Pollione. Norma has secretly borne two children with Pollione, but he has now fallen in love with Adalgisa, a young priestess in Norma's temple. Norma is devastated by Pollione's betrayal and contemplates killing her children and herself. In the end, she decides to sacrifice herself to the gods, hoping that her death will bring peace to her people. The music of 'Norma' is characterized by Bellini's signature bel canto style, with long, flowing melodies and intricate vocal ornamentation. The opera features several famous arias, including Norma's "Casta diva" and "Ah! bello a me ritorna," as well as Adalgisa's "Mira, o Norma." 'Norma' is divided into two acts, each with several movements. Act I begins with a chorus of Druids and priestesses, followed by a duet between Norma and Pollione. Adalgisa then enters and sings her aria, "Mira, o Norma." The act ends with a trio between Norma, Pollione, and Adalgisa. Act II opens with a scene between Norma and her confidante, Clotilde. Pollione then enters and sings his aria, "Me protegge, me difende." Norma confronts Pollione and Adalgisa, leading to a duet between Norma and Adalgisa. The opera concludes with Norma's famous aria, "Casta diva," and her final scene with Pollione. 'Norma' was not an immediate success at its premiere, but it has since become one of the most beloved operas in the bel canto repertoire. Its themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice continue to resonate with audiences today.

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