Giacomo Puccini (1858-1924)

 

á          He collaborated on some early operas with Boito, but many other librettists as well; his earliest operas not particularly well-received.

á          Tosca (1900) was first big success, although criticized at Roman premier for brutality.  His most verist opera

á          His most important works were around turn of century: Bohme (1896), Tosca (1900), Butterfly (1904). 

á          Puccini used very lush harmony, poignant melody, exploiting emotion; the music projects inevitable tragedy. 

á          Characteristics of PucciniÕs music:

á          frequent descending melodic lines

á          frequent parallel motion

á          Subjects are often Òexotic,Ó and music is constructed to convey that. Lots of interest in Asia. Many memorable Puccini characters are Asians, especially women.