The creation of Mirentxu was part of a broader movement in the Basque Country to establish a national opera, a romantic ideal widespread across Europe since the late 19th century.
Composition History
The libretto for Mirentxu underwent significant changes over time, with three fully bilingual versions created between 1909 and 1947.
Composition History
Mirentxu was commissioned by the Bilbao Choral Society, an institution to which the composer, Jesús Guridi, was closely linked.
Compositional Technique
The critical edition of the score by Ramon Lazkano describes Mirentxu as a work 'halfway between a singspiel and a Basque zarzuela, or a drama verista and a pastoral scene'.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Jesús Guridi, along with José María Usandizaga, sought to avoid simply compiling beautiful songs and instead aimed to give each character a characteristic motif.
Recording & Production
This is the first complete recording of Mirentxu, filling a gap in the history of Basque music.
Critical Reception
Critics praised Mirentxu's exquisite composition, noting its distinguished harmonies, unexpected modulations, and a 'juicy melody' that contrasted with contemporary dryness.
You might also enjoy...
Strauss, R.: Arabella
Weber: Euryanthe
Verdi: Rigoletto (Recorded Live 1956)
Donizetti: Maria Stuarda
Lindpaintner: Die sicilianische Vesper, Op. 332 (Sung in Italian as Il vespro siciliano) [Live]
Bellini: I Puritani
Delibes: Lakmé - Highlights
Rossini: Ermione
La Cenerentola - Gioacchino Rossini - Oper in Drei Akten - Opera in Three Acts Cd2
