Composer

:

Gaetano Donizetti

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1838

Average_duration

:

120:49

Maria de Rudenz is an opera in three acts composed by Gaetano Donizetti. The opera was composed in 1838 and premiered on January 30, 1838, at the Teatro La Fenice in Venice, Italy. The libretto was written by Salvadore Cammarano. The plot of Maria de Rudenz revolves around the titular character, Maria, who is forced to marry a man she does not love. Maria is in love with a man named Corrado, but her father has arranged for her to marry a wealthy nobleman named Count Sarezzo. Maria is torn between her duty to her family and her love for Corrado. In the first act, Maria is preparing for her wedding to Count Sarezzo. Corrado arrives and declares his love for Maria, but she tells him that she cannot be with him. Count Sarezzo arrives, and Maria reluctantly agrees to marry him. In the second act, Maria and Count Sarezzo are living in a castle in the mountains. Maria is unhappy in her marriage and longs to be with Corrado. Corrado arrives at the castle, and Maria agrees to run away with him. However, Count Sarezzo discovers their plan and challenges Corrado to a duel. Corrado kills Count Sarezzo and flees. In the third act, Maria is living in a convent, where she has taken refuge after the death of her husband. Corrado returns and tells Maria that he has been pardoned for killing Count Sarezzo. Maria is torn between her love for Corrado and her duty to the convent. In the end, Maria decides to leave the convent and be with Corrado. The music of Maria de Rudenz is characterized by Donizetti's signature bel canto style, with beautiful melodies and vocal fireworks. The opera features several memorable arias, including Maria's "Ah! non sai qual pena" and Corrado's "Ah! tu sorridi e ride." Overall, Maria de Rudenz is a compelling opera that explores themes of love, duty, and sacrifice. Its premiere was well-received, and it remains a popular work in the operatic repertoire.

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