Cavalleria-Rusticana

Cavalleria Rusticana at the Lviv Opera

For many opera buffs, Pietro Mascagni is not as well known as the titans of opera, such as, Wagner, Verdi, Puccini or the genius Mozart, Rossini…

And yet, the world opera treasury is richer for the presence of this exquisite pearl called Cavalleria Rusticana.

Indeed! Cavalleria Rusticana is a bright example, of the master reaching the heights of professionalism and combining them with true inspiration.

The opera contains everything that is part of its genre: a colourful, subtle and “aromatic” orchestra score; wealthy, while at the same time simple (though not simplistic and primitive), genuine melodies and harmonies, that naturally engage the listener; a concise form and a distinct dramatic line; masterfully developed choir scenes and of course, bright soloist arias, that can be called ?? of the Italian vocal school.

The story-line keeps everything very operatic (in the best meaning of the word): love, sincerity, grief, jealousy, deceit, volatileness, stubboness, vulgarity… Human beings show their sinfulness and beauty – so ridiculous and yet so eternal.