A Night at The Opera by Candlelight (A Puccini Celebration)

Artists

Giuseppe Verdi

Giuseppe Verdi, an iconic Italian opera composer, embraced his musical talents early with the support of a benefactor, quickly rising to prominence in the Italian opera sphere. By his 30s, he had already become a towering figure in the classical music world. Among his most celebrated works are Il Trovatore, Rigoletto, and La Traviata. With the financial success of his operas, Verdi also became a landowner, which allowed him some respite to enjoy his private life. Nonetheless, he made a triumphant return to the music world with the debut of his renowned opera Aida in 1871, followed by three more masterpieces: Otello, Requiem, and Falstaff.

Giacomo Puccini

Giacomo Puccini, a renowned Italian opera composer of the late 19th century, is celebrated as one of the finest musicians in the history of Italian Opera, ranking just behind Verdi. His initial compositions bore the hallmarks of traditional 19th-century romantic Italian operas. Over time, however, Puccini embraced the verismo style of realism, which led to the creation of his most acclaimed masterpieces and established him as a key figure in this genre. Among his most famous works are La bohème (1896), Tosca (1900), Madama Butterfly (1904), and Turandot (1924), each a staple in the foremost opera houses around the globe.

Johann Strauss

Johann Strauss Jr., celebrated as the waltz king, was the most renowned Austrian composer of dance music and operettas. Born in the outskirts of Vienna in 1825, his father, Johann Strauss I, a notable composer himself, strongly opposed his son's musical ambitions, preferring he pursue banking. Consequently, Strauss Jr. secretly learned the violin under Franz Amon, who led his father’s orchestra, while attending polytechnic college to appease his father. In 1844, Strauss formed his own ensemble, performing across various casinos and eateries, though his influential father tried to thwart his efforts by restricting his performances at major venues and events. Nevertheless, these obstacles did little to hinder his eventual success in Austria. Following his father's death, Strauss amalgamated their orchestras and embarked on tours throughout Austria and neighboring nations. Along with his composer brothers, Strauss enjoyed widespread acclaim for their contemporary, vibrant dance music. He even set a record in the United States by conducting an orchestra of 1,000 musicians. Strauss remained a beloved musical figure until his death in 1899, his compositions resonating with joy, a zest for life, and a celebration of the natural world, echoing the sounds of water, wind, and rustling leaves.