Composer

:

Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

Dec 23, 1911

Average_duration

:

47:00

"I gioielli della Madonna" is an opera in three acts composed by Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari. The opera was composed in 1907 and premiered on December 23, 1911, at the Königliches Opernhaus in Berlin. The libretto was written by Carlo Zangarini and Enrico Golisciani. The plot of the opera is set in Naples and revolves around the story of a young woman named Maliella, who is in love with a local smuggler named Rafaele. Maliella's mother, Carmela, is a devout Catholic who disapproves of her daughter's relationship with Rafaele. However, Maliella is determined to be with Rafaele and steals a pair of valuable earrings from the local church to give to him as a gift. The theft of the earrings sets off a chain of events that leads to tragedy. The local Camorra, a criminal organization, becomes involved in the situation and demands that Rafaele marry Maliella in exchange for their protection. Rafaele agrees, but the marriage is short-lived as he is killed by a rival gang. The final act of the opera takes place on the day of the Feast of the Madonna. Maliella, consumed with grief over Rafaele's death, confesses to the theft of the earrings and is sentenced to death. However, the Madonna intervenes and saves Maliella's life, allowing her to live out her days in repentance. "I gioielli della Madonna" is known for its use of Neapolitan folk music and its vivid portrayal of life in Naples. The opera features a number of memorable arias and duets, including Maliella's "O gioielli della Madonna" and Rafaele's "Torna ai felici di" which have become popular concert pieces. The opera is divided into three movements, each of which is marked by a change in tone and mood. The first act is characterized by a sense of youthful energy and passion, while the second act is darker and more ominous, reflecting the growing danger and violence of the situation. The final act is marked by a sense of redemption and forgiveness, as Maliella is saved by the Madonna's intervention. Overall, "I gioielli della Madonna" is a powerful and emotionally charged opera that explores themes of love, faith, and redemption. Its vivid portrayal of life in Naples and its use of Neapolitan folk music have made it a beloved classic of the operatic repertoire.

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