Composer

:

Arnold Rosner

Genre

:

Opera

The Chronicle of Nine is an opera composed by Arnold Rosner in 1980. The plot revolves around the story of nine medieval monks who are tasked with creating a chronicle of their monastery's history. As they delve deeper into their research, they uncover a dark secret about their order's past that threatens to tear them apart. The opera is divided into three movements, each representing a different stage in the monks' journey. The first movement, "The Chronicle Begins," introduces the characters and sets the stage for the story. The second movement, "The Chronicle Unfolds," sees the monks delving deeper into their research and discovering the dark secret that threatens to tear them apart. The final movement, "The Chronicle Concludes," sees the monks grappling with the consequences of their discovery and ultimately coming to a resolution. One of the defining characteristics of The Chronicle of Nine is its use of medieval musical elements. Rosner incorporates Gregorian chant and other medieval musical styles into the score, giving the opera a sense of authenticity and historical accuracy. Additionally, the opera features a large cast of characters, including the nine monks, their abbot, and various other members of their community. The Chronicle of Nine premiered in 1981 at the University of California, Santa Cruz. It was well-received by audiences and critics alike, with many praising Rosner's use of medieval musical elements and the opera's compelling storyline. Despite its initial success, The Chronicle of Nine has not been widely performed since its premiere, making it a relatively obscure work in the operatic canon. However, its unique blend of historical accuracy and musical innovation make it a fascinating piece for those interested in the intersection of music and history.

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