Buzz
Much like JFrater, I have a deep passion for opera and have even taken part in several performances. Below, I present my compilation of the top 10 operas in history, selected through a combination of online polls and my personal tastes. Enjoy! [JFrater wishes to note his disagreement with the absence of 20th-century operas but respects the contributor's choices.]
10. Daphne Jacopo Peri
This opera earns its place solely for being the first of its kind! While little of the original work remains today, I firmly believe that the inaugural piece of any genre deserves recognition. (Although some historians, including JFrater, argue that Hildegard von Bingen’s 12th-century “Ordo virtutum” holds this title, its staging remains unconfirmed, unlike Daphne.) The provided clip isn’t from Daphne, as Peri’s compositions are rare, but it features a counter-tenor performing a segment from Invocazione di Orfeo.
9. Der Freischütz Carl Maria von Weber
Despite its lack of widespread recognition or popularity, this German opera holds a special place in my heart. Drawing inspiration from German folk tunes and the romanticism of its era, it tells the tale of a man who bargains his soul with the Devil to improve his marksmanship and win a woman's affection. However, as often happens in such stories, his fate is tragic. The Wolf Glen Scene is particularly eerie and captivating.
8. The Barber of Seville Gioacchino Rossini
From the iconic Largo al Factotum to its unforgettable overture, this opera boasts one of the most recognizable openings in the genre. It follows Count Almaviva as he attempts to woo a beautiful woman, aided by the clever and resourceful Figaro, the town's barber.
7.
Madame Butterfly
Giacomo Puccini
Set in 1890s Japan, this opera gained fame partly due to Tamaki Miura's standout performance. It revolves around a young Geisha named Butterfly, who becomes entangled in a love triangle involving Lt. Pinkerton and Suzuki.
6. Don Giovanni Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
This two-act opera, inspired by the legendary Don Juan, showcases Mozart's signature blend of humor and drama. One of its most memorable moments is when Don Giovanni defiantly refuses to repent for his misdeeds and is consequently dragged to hell—an absolutely gripping scene!
5. La Traviata Giuseppe Verdi
The opera tells the tragic tale of Violetta, a courtesan who falls deeply in love with Alfredo. Battling tuberculosis, her health deteriorates, and, as is common in operas, her death is prolonged and poignant. She ultimately passes away in Alfredo's arms. The work is adorned with breathtaking arias, making it a true masterpiece.
4. Der Ring des Nibelungen Richard Wagner
While technically comprising multiple operas, this collection is often treated as a single entity. It holds the record for being the longest opera ever composed. The four parts are titled:
Das Rheingold (The Rhinegold) Die Walküre (The Valkyrie) Siegfried Götterdämmerung (Twilight of the Gods)
As evident in the provided clip, the Ring Cycle features some of Wagner's most celebrated and iconic musical compositions.
3. La Boheme Giacomo Puccini
This opera stands as one of the most frequently performed and beloved works of all time. It served as the inspiration for the musical “Rent!” and shares many similarities, though instead of AIDS, the characters grapple with tuberculosis—particularly Mimi, who tragically succumbs to the disease.
Opera enthusiasts, brace yourselves for a lively debate—this one is bound to spark some heated discussions! Unfortunately, I couldn’t locate a high-quality recording, but I hope this will still serve its purpose.
Contributor: Schiesl
2. Carmen Georges Bizet
This opera revolves around Carmen, a spirited Gypsy woman, and her tumultuous romance with Don Jose. As with many operas, their love is short-lived, leading to conflict and ultimately Carmen’s tragic demise. It’s renowned for its overture, the Toreador Song, and the iconic Habanera.
1. The Marriage of Figaro Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
The second installment in the Figaro trilogy, following Rossini’s Barber of Seville (listed as #9), this opera unfolds entirely within a single day at Count Almaviva’s palace. Renowned for its clever use of mistaken identities, delightful humor, and the unforgettable overture, it remains a masterpiece of comedic opera.
