Fedora (opera)

Fedora is an opera in three acts by Umberto Giordano, set to an Italian libretto by Arturo Colautti. It premiered at the Teatro Lirico in Milan on November 17, 1898.

Synopsis

The opera is a verismo work revolving around the character of Princess Fedora Romazov, a Russian princess. The story is set in Russia and Switzerland in the late 19th century.

Act 1: Set in St. Petersburg, Russia. Princess Fedora's fiancé, Count Vladimir Andrejevich, is murdered. Fedora suspects Count Loris Ipanov, an alleged nihilist, and vows to avenge Vladimir's death.

Act 2: Set in Paris. Fedora follows Loris, now in exile, and pretends to fall in love with him to extract a confession. Loris confesses that he killed Vladimir, but reveals the reason: Vladimir had had an affair with Loris’ wife. Fedora, now in love with Loris and understanding his motives, is torn by guilt over her initial suspicions and vengeance plot.

Act 3: Set in Switzerland, at Loris' villa. Olga Sukarev, Fedora's friend, reveals in a letter that Fedora's accusations to the Russian police led to the arrest and death of Loris' brother and the death of his mother. Loris is devastated. Fedora, overwhelmed by guilt and remorse, takes poison hidden in a hairpin to atone for her actions. She dies in Loris' arms, confessing her love for him.

Roles

• Fedora Romazov, a Russian princess (soprano)
• Count Loris Ipanov (tenor)
• Count Vladimir Andrejevich, Fedora's fiancé (tenor)
• Olga Sukarev, Fedora's friend (mezzo-soprano)
• De Siriex, a French diplomat (baritone)
• Gretch, an old servant of Fedora (bass)

Musical Style

Fedora is considered a verismo opera, characterized by its focus on realistic and often violent situations, passionate emotions, and a dramatic musical style. The opera features soaring melodies and emotionally charged duets, highlighting the turbulent relationship between Fedora and Loris. Giordano's score incorporates elements of Russian folk music to establish the opera's setting. The aria "Amor ti vieta" from Act II, sung by Loris, is a particularly well-known and often-performed excerpt.