Performance

Although the direct source for the libretto of the opera "Turandot" was Carlo Gozzi's play, it is impossible to ignore its romantic translation by Friedrich Schiller, who introduced the story of the Chinese princess into Western culture. However, today it is thanks to Giacomo Puccini's opera that this story has permanently entered the theatrical stage. Despite the composer's death preventing him from completing the opera, "Turandot" is artistically a finished work.

 

The story of the titular "bloodthirsty" Chinese princess provided Puccini with the impetus to compose a monumental work, with elaborate choral scenes and challenging soloist parts. The Orient, with its exoticism - a great fascination of the composer - effectively emerged in the music through a sophisticated stylization, shimmering with a variety of colors in the instrumentation. Puccini was able to imbue the fantasy of the libretto with deep life truths and emotions. He also incorporated original Chinese melodies and instruments into his composition, lending exotic color to the music.

 

And although "Turandot" is not a plot-driven opera, Puccini achieves mastery in the characterization of the characters and the gradual escalation of musical tension within it.