Composer

:

Sergey Prokofiev

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1940

Average_duration

:

147:10

"Betrothal in a Monastery" is an opera composed by Sergey Prokofiev in 1940. The plot is based on a play by the 18th-century Spanish playwright, Antonio de Zamora. The opera is set in Seville, Spain, and revolves around the story of a young woman, Louisa, who is betrothed to a man she does not love. She falls in love with a young man, Don Antonio, who is disguised as a monk. The story is full of mistaken identities, comic situations, and romantic entanglements. The opera is divided into three acts and has a total of 13 scenes. The first act introduces the characters and sets the stage for the story. The second act is the most complex, with several subplots and twists and turns. The third act brings all the characters together for a final resolution. The music of "Betrothal in a Monastery" is characterized by Prokofiev's signature style, which combines modernist harmonies and rhythms with traditional melodies and forms. The opera features a large orchestra, with prominent use of percussion and brass. The vocal writing is challenging, with many intricate ensemble passages and demanding solos. "Betrothal in a Monastery" premiered at the Kirov Theatre in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg) on November 3, 1946. The premiere was a great success, and the opera quickly became one of Prokofiev's most popular works. It has since been performed all over the world, and is considered a masterpiece of 20th-century opera. The movements of "Betrothal in a Monastery" are divided into three acts, each with several scenes. The first act includes scenes such as the introduction of the characters, the betrothal ceremony, and Louisa's encounter with Don Antonio. The second act includes scenes such as the arrival of the Duke, the attempted abduction of Louisa, and the comic subplot involving the servant Mendoza. The third act includes scenes such as the final confrontation between Louisa and her betrothed, and the resolution of the various romantic entanglements. Overall, "Betrothal in a Monastery" is a lively and entertaining opera, full of humor, romance, and drama. Prokofiev's music is both modern and accessible, and the story is engaging and well-paced. It remains a beloved work of the operatic repertoire, and a testament to Prokofiev's genius as a composer.

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