The autograph manuscript of Giordano's "Marcella" was saved by being taken out of Milan, allowing for its score and orchestral material to be reprinted today.
Critical Reception
Giovanni Pozza, a dramatic critic for the Corriere della Sera, described "Marcella" as a 'Modern Idyll' and noted its delicate expression and taste for details, rather than dramatic force.
Composition History
Umberto Giordano's opera "Marcella" was triumphantly performed at the Teatro Lirico in Milan in 1907, featuring Gemma Bellincioni and Fernando de Lucia.
Compositional Technique
Giordano, a master of Fugues, skillfully uses narrative counterpoint in "Marcella," similar to how he made the first act of "Fedora" a real-time event.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Umberto Giordano's credo, as demonstrated in "Marcella," was that 'What matters is the tune, finding a good tune. That's what matters!'
Historical Context
The opera "Marcella" could have continued its success if the Sonzogno Publishing House had not been seriously damaged by the same bomb that struck La Scala during World War II.
Compositional Technique
The libretto of "Marcella" is noted for its simplicity and lack of action, consisting mainly of three love duets between the protagonists.
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