Composer

:

Franz Schmidt

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1904 - 1906

Average_duration

:

125:27

"Notre Dame" is an opera composed by Franz Schmidt, which premiered on April 1, 1914, at the Vienna Court Opera. The opera is based on Victor Hugo's novel "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" and tells the story of Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer of Notre Dame Cathedral, and his love for the beautiful gypsy girl, Esmeralda. The opera is divided into three acts and ten scenes. The first act introduces the characters and sets the scene in Paris in the late 15th century. Quasimodo is introduced as the bell-ringer of Notre Dame Cathedral, and Esmeralda is introduced as a beautiful gypsy girl who captures the attention of many men, including the captain of the guard, Phoebus, and the archdeacon of Notre Dame, Frollo. The second act focuses on the love triangle between Quasimodo, Esmeralda, and Phoebus. Frollo, who is obsessed with Esmeralda, becomes jealous of Phoebus and plots to kill him. However, he mistakenly stabs Esmeralda instead, and she is sentenced to death for the crime of witchcraft. The third act takes place on the day of Esmeralda's execution. Quasimodo, who has been imprisoned for trying to save Esmeralda, escapes and rescues her from the gallows. However, Frollo catches up with them and kills Quasimodo. Esmeralda dies in Quasimodo's arms, and Frollo is left alone to face the consequences of his actions. The music of "Notre Dame" is characterized by its lush orchestration and Wagnerian influences. The opera features a large chorus and orchestra, and the vocal writing is demanding, particularly for the role of Esmeralda. The score also includes several memorable arias and duets, including Quasimodo's aria "Mein Kind, du siehst mich nicht in deiner Nähe" and the duet between Esmeralda and Phoebus, "O süsseste Wonne!" Overall, "Notre Dame" is a powerful and emotional opera that explores themes of love, jealousy, and obsession. Its premiere in 1914 was well-received, and it remains a popular work in the operatic repertoire today.

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