Edgar, SC 62 (complete)

Description

EDGAR, SC 62, is Giacomo Puccini's (1858–1924) second opera, which premiered at La Scala in Milan on April 21, 1889. Loosely inspired by Alfred de Musset's "La Coupe et les l�vres," the opera explores the inner turmoil of its titular character, Edgar, who is torn between the virtuous love of Fidelia and the seductive allure of the courtesan Tigrana. Set in Flanders during the Middle Ages, the story follows Edgar's flight from duty, supposed death, and eventual redemption. Despite the success of Puccini's debut opera LE VILLI, EDGAR was met with a lukewarm reception and underwent several revisions in an attempt to improve its dramatic structure. Today, EDGAR is rarely performed and is largely viewed as an apprentice work; however, it offers valuable insight into Puccini's evolving style and contains glimpses of the melodic and emotional richness that would come to define his later masterpieces. Vocal score reprint edition.