5 Inspiring Opera Pieces That Will Move You

Looking for some inspiration? Check out these five amazing opera pieces that are sure to move you. From classics like Puccini’s “Nessun Dorma” to modern pieces like Jake Heggie’s “The Starry Night,” there’s something for everyone.

Introduction

Opera is often thought of as a stuffy, elitist art form, but nothing could be further from the truth. Opera has the power to move us like few other art forms can. It can make us laugh, it can make us cry, and it can stay with us long after the final curtain falls.

If you’re new to opera, or if you’re looking for some pieces that will really move you, here are five inspiring opera pieces that are sure to do the trick.

1. Cavalleria Rusticana – Mascagni
One of the most popular operas of all time, Cavalleria Rusticana is a short work (just under an hour in length) with a big impact. It tells the story of a love triangle set against the backdrop of a Sicilian village on Easter Sunday. The music is incredibly beautiful and incredibly moving, and the story will stay with you long after you’ve heard it.

2. Tosca – Puccini
Tosca is one of Puccini’s most popular operas, and it’s not hard to see why. It tells the story of an aristocratic singer who becomes embroiled in a dangerous political plot in Rome. The music is absolutely gorgeous, and the story is full of suspense, romance, and tragedy. Tosca is an opera that truly has it all.

3. La Bohème – Puccini
La Bohème is one of Puccini’s best-loved operas, and it’s easy to see why. It tells the moving story of young artists struggling to make ends meet in Paris during the 19th century. The music is simply beautiful, and the characters are incredibly relatable and sympathetic. You can’t help but be moved by this timeless tale of love and loss.

4. Carmen – Bizet
Carmen is one of the most popular operas in the world, and for good reason. It tells the story of a fiery gypsy woman who seduces a military officer only to ultimately reject him for another man. The music is incredibly catchy and incredibly memorable, and Carmen herself is one of opera’s most iconic characters. You’re sure to be moved by this passionate and tragic tale.

“Nessun dorma” from Turandot

The aria “Nessun dorma” (“None shall sleep”) is one of the most famous tenor arias in all of opera. It comes at the end of the third act of Puccini’s Turandot and is sung by the character Calàf, who has just won a challenge posed by the princess Turandot: if he can correctly answer three riddles, he can marry her. If he fails, he will be executed.

In this aria, Calàf expresses his confidence that he will win the challenge and also his love for Turandot. The music is both powerful and beautiful, and it always brings a tear to my eye.

“La donna è mobile” from Rigoletto

“La donna è mobile” (“Woman is fickle”) is a famous aria from the opera Rigoletto by Giuseppe Verdi. It is sung by the Duke of Mantua, a womanizing aristocrat, in the third act when he is flirting with Gilda, the daughter of Rigoletto.

The aria is famous for its fast, frivolous pace and its catchy melody, which has been used in numerous commercials and movies. It is often performed as a standalone piece, outside of the opera itself.

“Una furtiva lagrima” from L’elisir d’amore

One of the most beautiful tracks in all of opera, “Una furtiva lagrima” is sung by the character Nemorino as he pines for the love of Adina. The entire aria is brimming with emotion, but it’s the last few lines that are truly heartbreaking. As Nemorino begs Adina to love him back, his voice swells with hope and desperation, culminating in a powerful final note.

“Libiamo ne’ lieti calici” from La traviata

This piece is from one of the most popular operas ever written, La traviata. It’s a story about young, tragic love, and “Libiamo ne’ lieti calici” is a moment of pure joy. In English, the title means “Let’s drink from the joyful cups,” and that’s exactly what this music feels like. It’s exuberant and celebratory, and it will make you want to raise a glass along with the characters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many different types of opera music that can inspire and move you. Each type of opera has its own unique style and story that can touch your heart in different ways. Whether you’re looking for something heartwarming, tragic, or comical, there’s sure to be an opera piece out there that will speak to you.