Composer

:

Albert Lortzing

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Average_duration

:

87:38

Hans Sachs is an opera composed by Albert Lortzing in 1840. The plot revolves around the life of the famous German poet and cobbler, Hans Sachs, who lived in the 16th century. The opera is set in Nuremberg, where Sachs is a respected member of the community and a master of his craft. The first act of the opera introduces the audience to Sachs and his fellow craftsmen, who are preparing for the upcoming festival of St. John. Sachs is also working on a new pair of shoes for his beloved Eva, who is engaged to the young knight Walther von Stolzing. However, Walther is not familiar with the traditional rules of the singing contest that takes place during the festival, and Sachs takes it upon himself to teach him. In the second act, Walther competes in the singing contest, but his unconventional style is met with disapproval from the judges. Sachs, however, recognizes the potential in Walther's talent and helps him to refine his technique. Meanwhile, Eva's father, Pogner, offers her hand in marriage to the winner of the contest, but she is hesitant to marry anyone other than Walther. The third act sees Walther and Eva's love for each other grow stronger, despite the obstacles in their way. Sachs also begins to realize his own feelings for Eva, but ultimately decides to put her happiness above his own. The opera ends with Walther winning the contest and marrying Eva, while Sachs continues to write poetry and make shoes for the people of Nuremberg. Hans Sachs premiered on June 23, 1840, at the Stadttheater in Leipzig, Germany. The opera is divided into three acts and features a variety of musical styles, including folk songs, choruses, and arias. Lortzing's use of German folk music and his portrayal of the everyday lives of ordinary people were innovative for the time and helped to establish him as a leading figure in German opera. Overall, Hans Sachs is a charming and lighthearted opera that celebrates the beauty of love, music, and community. Its memorable characters, catchy tunes, and heartwarming story have made it a beloved classic of the German operatic repertoire.

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