Giacomo Puccini, ca. 1908, by A. Dupont (Library of Congress)
Giacomo Puccini (1858–1924) is the most popular of all the operatic masters, and his works have had an enduring presence on stages from the late 19th century through the present. We know and love Puccini—but there is so much more to learn about him. Through films and recordings, Saul Lilienstein delves beyond the familiar to examine fascinating aspects of the life, career, and creative genius of this most famed and favorite of opera composers.
FEATURED TOPIC
A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man
Puccini was born into a family of church musicians, but after hearing Verdi’s Aida at 15 he longed for a life in the theatre. His one-act opera Le villi was successful; his full-length work, Edgar, followed and failed. Yet the seeds of triumphs to come were firmly planted.
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Other Connections
If you enjoy programming led by Saul Lilienstein, learn about an 8-part series on Leonard Bernstein he is leading at Levine Music.
