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Le Fate (opera)
Le fate (Italian for The Fairies) is an opera in 2 acts (fiaba musicale in due parti — musical fairy-tale in 2 parts) by Henrique Oswald to an Italian libretto by Eduardo Filippi. It is the last of Oswald's three operas, composed in 1902–1903. It is known of no performances of this work. It remains unpublished.[1] HistoryDating and manuscriptsThe dating of the opera comes from a manuscript (now at Arquivo Nacional in Rio de Janeiro)[2] of the complete score, having "Firenze, 1902–1903" on the title page.[3] It consists of 259 pages.[3] Another manuscript contains a vocal score arranged by the composer, it is at the library of Escola de Comunicações a Artes. The first part of it in written on Italian paper, while the second is on Brazilian. At the end of the first part there is a dating by Oswald: "Outubro de 1902, Villa Speranza"; at the ends of the second part: "Outubro de 1904, Rio Comprido".[1][2] There is also a separate manuscript with a vocal score of Ulina's aria, on Brazilian paper, undated.[1] StyleUnlike two other operas by Oswald, this one includes a ballet.[3] RolesThere are only three singing roles:[1][3]
Choruses and dancers include fairies, satyrs, bacchantes, vampires, soldiers and sailors.[1][3] ScoringThe orchestra consists of:[3]
SynopsisThe action takes place in a grotto near the isle of Cyprus, in the kingdom of the fairy Ulina.[1] After the overture comes the chorus Eterna giovinezza allieta il nostro cor. The plot is based on Ulina's love towards Brunello, who doesn't love her. At the end he defends the fairy from the soldiers, who try to hurt her, without being able to prevent her death, but just in time to declare his love.[1] EditionsA complete edition of the opera is being prepared by Brazilian scholars. By 2016, four selected numbers have already been published in vocal scores:[2]
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