Composer

:

Ildebrando Pizzetti

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1957

First Performance

:

Mar 1, 1958

Average_duration

:

86:56

Assassinio nella Cattedrale (Murder in the Cathedral) is an opera composed by Ildebrando Pizzetti in 1958. The libretto was written by the composer himself, based on the play of the same name by T.S. Eliot. The opera premiered on March 1, 1958, at the Teatro alla Scala in Milan, Italy. The plot of the opera revolves around the assassination of Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170. The opera is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on Becket's return to England after seven years of exile in France. He is met with opposition from King Henry II, who sees him as a threat to his power. Becket is warned of the danger he faces, but he refuses to leave Canterbury and continues to preach against the king's abuses of power. In the second part of the opera, Becket is assassinated by four knights who believe they are carrying out the king's wishes. Becket's murder is depicted as a ritualistic act, with the knights reciting a litany as they carry out the killing. Becket's death is seen as a martyrdom, and the opera ends with a chorus lamenting his loss. The music of Assassinio nella Cattedrale is characterized by its use of medieval chant and polyphony, as well as modernist harmonies and dissonances. The opera is scored for a large orchestra, with prominent use of percussion and brass. The vocal writing is demanding, with the lead role of Becket requiring a powerful baritone voice. Assassinio nella Cattedrale is divided into two movements, with the first movement focusing on Becket's return to England and the second movement depicting his assassination. The opera is notable for its use of choral music, with the chorus playing a prominent role in both movements. The music is highly dramatic, with moments of intense emotion and tension. Overall, Assassinio nella Cattedrale is a powerful and moving opera that explores themes of power, martyrdom, and sacrifice. It is a testament to Pizzetti's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both modern and rooted in tradition.

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