Composer

:

Mikhail Glinka

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Incidental Music

Compose Date

:

1840

Publication Date

:

1862

First Performance

:

Sep 30, 1841

"Prince Kholmsky, G. vii37" is a chamber opera composed by Mikhail Glinka. The opera was composed in 1838 and premiered on March 19, 1840, at the Bolshoi Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia. The libretto was written by Nestor Kukolnik, a prominent Russian playwright of the time. The opera consists of two acts and is based on a historical event that took place in the 17th century. The story revolves around Prince Ivan Kholmsky, who is in love with a young woman named Maria. However, Maria is already engaged to another man, and the Prince is forced to leave her. Later, the Prince returns to find that Maria has been kidnapped by a group of Tartars. He sets out to rescue her, but in the end, he is killed in battle. The opera is known for its beautiful melodies and lyrical arias. The music is characterized by its use of Russian folk melodies and rhythms, which give the opera a distinctly Russian flavor. The vocal writing is also notable, with each character having a unique vocal style that reflects their personality and emotions. The first act of the opera is set in the Prince's castle, where he is pining for Maria. The music in this act is introspective and melancholic, reflecting the Prince's sadness and longing. The second act takes place in the Tartar camp, where the Prince is fighting to rescue Maria. The music in this act is more dramatic and intense, with driving rhythms and powerful choral passages. Overall, "Prince Kholmsky, G. vii37" is a beautiful and moving opera that showcases Glinka's talent for melody and his ability to capture the essence of Russian culture in his music. It remains a popular work in the Russian opera repertoire to this day.

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