Bohuslav Martinu
Comedy on the Bridge, H. 247a
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Composer:Bohuslav MartinuGenre:OrchestralStyle:OrchestralCompose Date:1951Publication Date:1952Average_duration:5:40Movement_count:3Movement ....Bohuslav Martinu's "Comedy on the Bridge, H. 247a" is a one-act opera that was composed in 1935. The opera premiered on May 18, 1937, in Prague, Czechoslovakia. The libretto was written by the composer himself, and it is based on a play by Václav Kliment Klicpera. The opera consists of three movements, and it is scored for a small orchestra, including two flutes, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons, two horns, percussion, and strings. The first movement is a lively and rhythmic overture that sets the tone for the opera. The second movement is a series of arias and duets that introduce the characters and their stories. The third movement is a fast-paced finale that brings all the characters together in a comedic and chaotic scene. The opera is characterized by Martinu's unique style, which blends elements of Czech folk music with modernist techniques. The music is playful and whimsical, with a sense of humor that matches the absurdity of the plot. The vocal lines are often angular and disjunct, reflecting the characters' emotions and personalities. The plot of the opera revolves around a group of travelers who find themselves stranded on a bridge that has been closed for repairs. The travelers include a soldier, a student, a gypsy, a bride and groom, and a group of musicians. As they wait for the bridge to reopen, they begin to interact with each other, revealing their secrets and desires. The soldier falls in love with the bride, the student falls in love with the gypsy, and chaos ensues as they try to navigate their relationships. Overall, "Comedy on the Bridge" is a charming and lighthearted opera that showcases Martinu's unique musical style. Its premiere in Prague was a success, and it has since become a popular work in the operatic repertoire.More....
