Composer

:

Jules Massenet

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1872 - 1888

"Don César de Bazan" is an opera composed by Jules Massenet, with a libretto by Adolphe d'Ennery, Philippe François Pinel, and Jules Chantepie. The opera was composed in 1872 and premiered on November 30, 1872, at the Théâtre Lyrique in Paris. The plot of the opera revolves around the character of Don César de Bazan, a charming and roguish nobleman who falls in love with the beautiful Maritana, a street singer. However, Maritana is already engaged to the King of Spain, and Don César's attempts to win her heart are complicated by his own past, which includes a stint in prison and a reputation as a troublemaker. The opera is divided into four acts, each of which features a different movement. The first act introduces the characters and sets up the central conflict, as Don César and Maritana meet and fall in love. The second act sees Don César arrested and imprisoned, while Maritana is taken to the palace to marry the King. In the third act, Don César escapes from prison and attempts to rescue Maritana, but is ultimately captured and sentenced to death. The final act sees Don César pardoned by the King and reunited with Maritana. One of the key characteristics of "Don César de Bazan" is its use of Spanish musical motifs and rhythms, which give the opera a distinctly exotic flavor. Massenet's score is also notable for its use of lush orchestration and soaring vocal melodies, which help to convey the emotional intensity of the story. Overall, "Don César de Bazan" is a romantic and melodramatic opera that showcases Massenet's skill as a composer of both music and drama. Its premiere was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it remains a popular work in the operatic repertoire to this day.

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