Donizetti's fluency in composing was so renowned that a French satirical paper, Le Charivari, depicted him writing both a comic and a serious opera simultaneously.
Historical Context
In 1840, Paris was experiencing political instability under King Louis-Philippe, with short-lived governments and economic crises.
Album & Artwork
This album is part of Opera Rara's mission to rediscover, restore, record, and perform forgotten 19th-century operatic heritage.
Recording & Production
This recording of Donizetti's Les Martyrs was made at St Clement's Church in London during October and November 2014.
Composition History
Les Martyrs is a French adaptation of Donizetti's Italian opera Poliuto, which was banned in Naples due to its Christian theme.
Composition History
Gaetano Donizetti's opera Les Martyrs premiered on April 10, 1840, in Paris, France.
Composer Biography
Hector Berlioz, a critic and composer, complained in 1840 about a "veritable invasion" of Donizetti's operas on the Parisian operatic scene.
