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The Golden Age of Opera in Italy: Verdi and Romanticism

Explore the romantic opera era in Italy, featuring renowned composers like Verdi and the bel canto style. Learn about Verdi's impact on Italian nationalism and his iconic operas. Delve into the emotional intensity and exquisite vocal melodies of this period.

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The Golden Age of Opera in Italy: Verdi and Romanticism

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  1. Chapter 23:Romantic Opera: Italy

  2. Italy • The golden age of opera with composers such as Rossini, Bellini, Verdi, Wagner, Bizet, and Puccini • Bel canto:“Beautiful singing” • Term coined by Rossini • Early creators of bel canto include Donizetti and Bellini • Emphasis on beautiful vocal melodies • Orchestra provides simple harmonic support • Exalted the leading opera singers • Prima donna or diva: Lead soprano, usually the heroine

  3. Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901) • Most popular opera composer throughout Europe • His operas are performed more than any others • Early operas supported Italian nationalism • Promoted a united Italy • Dramas turned to domestic themes and personal conflict • Opera standards include: Rigoletto (1851), La traviata (1853), Il trovatore (1853), Aida (1871)

  4. Verdi’s Dramaturgy and Musical Style • Conflict – personal or national – the root of every emotion • Clear expression of emotion • Emotional states almost melodramatic • Intense passion and nonstop action • Recitativo accompagnato: Orchestra accompanies the recitative; Smooth transitions between recitative and aria • Arias push singers to the utmost of their range • Bel canto style

  5. La traviata (1853) • “The Woman Gone Astray” • Based on a story (Camille) by Alexandre Dumas the younger • Pits passionate love against middle-class morality • “Un di felice” • Gala party at the end of the first act • Alfredo and Violetta sing to each other

  6. La traviata, Act I, Scene 6 • A Scena • Slow aria (“Ah fors´è lui”) • Recitative accompagnata (“Follie!”) • Cabaletta (“Sempre libera”) • A fast-paced concluding aria • Virtuosity serves a dramatic purpose • Allows character to rush off stage

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