Credits:

Daniele Agiman

Description:

A Japonisme Opera Filled with Beautiful MelodiesMascagni received overwhelming acclaim for *Cavalleria Rusticana*, which he premiered in 1890 at the age of 27. He continued to energetically produce numerous operas thereafter, and this *Iris* premiered in 1898. Based on a libretto written specifically for the opera by Luigi Illicarather than an existing play or novelthis work is set in Japans Edo period, and its storyline would later influence Puccinis *Madama Butterfly*. The music features few of the typical 4- or 8-measure phrase structures, instead weaving together long, smooth melodies with great beauty. This masterpiece of Italian opera delights with its flowing, soothing music. Please enjoy this live performance recorded in Italy in 2017.King International