The Enchanting Melodies of Verdi’s La Traviata: A Journey Through Opera and Performance
Intermezzo: A Moment in Time
Check out the Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana, composed by Ruggero Leoncavallo, as performed by Mascagni. It’s simply stunningly beautiful and will make you weep, transporting your thoughts from Italy to the Bronx, where you might suddenly feel the urge to dance around slowly, reminiscent of a boxer in the ring. This is a subconscious flashback to the time when you watched Robert De Niro as Jake LaMotta in Schindler’s List.
Verdi’s Opera La Traviata: A Timeless Tale
Verdi’s La Traviata is a timeless masterpiece, and Finale II (not the Finale Ultimo) is simply inefable, particularly at the poignant end. The story unfolds as Alfred, a lover of Violet, a physically ailing ex-courtesan, who left her past behind for him, is convinced by George Germont, Violet’s father, to end their relationship and marry a supposed sister. Vexed and feeling betrayed, Alfred seeks to defend his honor by challenging the Baron Douphol to a duel.
At a party hosted by Violet’s friend Flora, Alfred joins the revelry, playing cards while lamenting his misfortunes at love. Shortly after, Violet, accompanied by the Baron, arrives, challenging Alfred to a card game which he must win to recover what he once had. In the Largo del Finale II, the opera’s centerpiece, Violet’s humiliation and suffering are poignantly highlighted, culminating in a powerful and emotive aria. This pivotal scene also includes a heartbreaking father’s condemnation of his son, Alfred’s lament, his friends’ pity, and George Germont’s sorrow. The Largo del Finale II is a perfect example of how Verdi masterfully weaves dramatic narrative with emotional intensity through music.
The 1988 Glyndebourne Production: A Timeless Classic
To experience the full impact of these melodies, consider watching the 1988 Glyndebourne production of La Traviata, featuring Marie McLaughlin as Violet, Walter MacNeil as Alfred, and Brent Ellis as George. This version, subtitled in Portuguese by me, offers a profound tragic dimension and a blend of lush, melancholic melodies. The production also includes a short obscenity at the beginning, which you can easily ignore as it dissipates quickly.
Exploring Further: Key Operatic Elements and Analysis
Verdi’s operatic mastery lies in his ability to convey psychological depth and emotional complexity through music. The Intermezzo and the Largo del Finale II exemplify this, providing listeners with profound emotional experiences. Analysis of these works can be found here, which highlights the intricate musical structures and dramatic narrative driving these operas.