Puccini’s operas, including La Bohème, Madama Butterfly, Turandot and Tosca, remain among the most frequently performed and best loved in the world. This study day explores the life and music of a composer whose gift for drama extended well beyond the stage.

Alongside his unforgettable scores, you’ll discover a life marked by passion, scandal and larger-than-life interests. With plenty of musical examples and no prior musical knowledge required, this course is perfect for anyone who enjoys opera or wants a lively way into it.

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face

COURSE OUTLINE

• What do we think of when we think of Puccini?
• Puccini’s Place in History
• Puccini’s Musical Style
• Historical and Social Background
• “E lucevan le stelle” from Tosca
• The Early Years
• Study in Milan
• Messa di Gloria
• Elvira Gemignani
• Le Villi, Edgar, Manon Lescaut
• La Boheme
• Tosca
• Marriage
• Madama Butterfly
• The Doria Manfredi scandal
• La Fanciulla del West, La Rondine, Il trittico
• Puccini’s final years
• Turandot

LEARNING OUTCOMES

1. Describe elements of Puccini's musical style
2. List some of Puccini’s works, and describe their place in his musical output
3. Describe some of the major events of Puccini’s life