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
His Final Work
Turandot takes place in ancient China, but Puccini’s score reflected his modern world. The orchestration and choral writing is strikingly inventive and the contemporary innovations he heard in the music of Debussy and Stravinsky are here—yet individual voices are encouraged to soar in thrilling arias such as “Nessun Dorma.” Turandot was left incomplete at Puccini’s death in 1924. Why couldn’t he finish it? Is there a satisfactory performing solution among the posthumous attempts? The concluding session addresses and perhaps answers these questions.
If you are interested in other sessions or viewing the full course, click here.
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.
