Composer

:

Riccardo Zandonai

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Average_duration

:

130:17

Francesca da Rimini is an opera in four acts composed by Riccardo Zandonai. The opera is based on the tragic love story of Francesca da Rimini and Paolo Malatesta, which is narrated in Dante's Inferno. The libretto was written by Tito Ricordi and was first performed at the Teatro alla Scala in Milan on February 19, 1914. The opera is set in the 13th century in Rimini, Italy. Francesca, the daughter of Guido da Polenta, is forced to marry the deformed and cruel Gianciotto Malatesta, the brother of her true love, Paolo. Despite her initial reluctance, Francesca falls in love with Paolo, and they begin an affair. However, they are discovered by Gianciotto, who kills them both in a fit of rage. The opera is characterized by its lush and romantic music, which is heavily influenced by the works of Richard Wagner. The score features a large orchestra, including a prominent role for the harp, and includes several memorable arias and duets. The vocal writing is demanding, particularly for the role of Francesca, which requires a soprano with a strong and agile voice. Francesca da Rimini was a critical and commercial success at its premiere, and it quickly became one of the most popular operas of the early 20th century. The opera was performed throughout Europe and the United States, and it was frequently recorded and broadcast on radio. The opera's popularity declined in the mid-20th century, but it has experienced a revival in recent years, with several new productions and recordings. The opera is divided into four acts, each of which is further divided into several scenes. The first act introduces the characters and sets up the love triangle between Francesca, Paolo, and Gianciotto. The second act features the lovers' first meeting and their subsequent affair. The third act is the opera's emotional climax, as Gianciotto discovers the affair and kills the lovers. The final act features Francesca and Paolo in the afterlife, where they are condemned to eternal damnation for their sins. Overall, Francesca da Rimini is a powerful and emotional opera that explores themes of love, betrayal, and redemption. Its lush and romantic music, combined with its tragic story and memorable characters, have made it a beloved work of the operatic repertoire.

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