Composer

:

Gaetano Donizetti

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1833

Average_duration

:

132:11

Parisina is an opera in three acts composed by Gaetano Donizetti. The libretto was written by Felice Romani, based on a tragedy by Lord Byron. The opera was composed in 1830 and premiered on March 17, 1833, at the Teatro della Pergola in Florence, Italy. The plot of Parisina revolves around the tragic love story of Parisina and her stepson Ugo. Parisina is the wife of the Duke of Ferrara, Azzo VIII, but she falls in love with Ugo, who is also in love with her. The two lovers are discovered by Azzo, who orders their execution. In the end, Parisina and Ugo are executed, and Azzo is left to mourn their deaths. The opera is characterized by its dramatic and emotional music, which perfectly captures the intensity of the story. Donizetti's use of melody and harmony is particularly effective in conveying the emotions of the characters, especially in the duets between Parisina and Ugo. The first movement of the opera is set in the Duke's palace, where Parisina and Ugo first meet and fall in love. The second movement takes place in the prison where Parisina and Ugo are held before their execution. The final movement is set in the courtyard of the palace, where the two lovers are executed. Parisina is considered one of Donizetti's most successful operas, and it has been performed regularly since its premiere. The opera's popularity is due in part to its powerful music and emotional story, which continue to resonate with audiences today.

More....