Composer

:

André-Ernest-Modeste Grétry

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1784

Average_duration

:

83:25

André-Ernest-Modeste Grétry's opera 'Richard Coeur-de-lion' was composed in 1784 and premiered at the Comédie-Italienne in Paris on October 21 of the same year. The opera is set in the twelfth century and tells the story of King Richard the Lionheart's imprisonment in Austria during his return from the Third Crusade. The plot revolves around the efforts of his loyal friend Blondel to locate and rescue him. The opera is divided into three acts and features a libretto by Michel-Jean Sedaine. The music is characterized by its lightness and elegance, with Grétry's use of simple melodies and catchy tunes making it accessible to a wide audience. The opera also features a number of ensemble pieces, including duets, trios, and choruses, which add to its overall charm. The first act opens with a chorus of knights and ladies celebrating Richard's return from the Crusade. However, their joy is short-lived as news arrives that Richard has been captured and imprisoned in Austria. The second act sees Blondel embark on a journey to find Richard, during which he sings the famous aria "Ô Richard, ô mon roi!" (Oh Richard, oh my king!). The act ends with Blondel discovering Richard's location and vowing to rescue him. The final act sees Blondel successfully rescue Richard, who is then reunited with his wife Berengaria. The opera ends with a rousing chorus celebrating Richard's return to England. Despite its popularity at the time of its premiere, 'Richard Coeur-de-lion' is now rarely performed. However, it remains an important work in the history of French opera, with its lightness and accessibility paving the way for the more popular operas of the nineteenth century.

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