| Marketing Copy | Giuseppe Verdi’s (1813-1901) I VESPRI SICILIANI premiered on June 13, 1855, at the Paris Opéra under its original French title, LES VÊPRES SICILIENNES. Set against the backdrop of the 13th-century Sicilian Vespers uprising against French occupation, the opera weaves themes of patriotism, political intrigue, and personal sacrifice. The story follows the nobleman Arrigo, torn between loyalty to his father—who leads the occupying forces—and his love for Elena, a Sicilian duchess seeking revenge for her brother’s execution. Though not as frequently staged as Verdi’s more canonical works like LA TRAVIATA or RIGOLETTO, I VESPRI SICILIANI is admired for its ambitious scope, stirring choruses, and majestic orchestration. Today, it holds a respected place in the repertoire as a transitional work that bridges Verdi’s early and middle periods, especially when performed with a strong cast capable of meeting its demanding vocal and dramatic challenges. Instrumentation: 1+Picc.2.2.2: 4.2+2Cnt.3.1: Timp.Perc(7-8): Hp: Str (4.4.3.3.3 in set): Vocal Soli (11 roles, SATTTTBBBBB): Chorus. Reprint edition. |
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