HÚSVÉT MASCAGNIVAL (Messa di Gloria / Parasztbecsület)
Schedule
Mascagni's name brings to mind The Honour of the Peasant, but an equally uplifting experience can be had in the Mass, which is radiant and radiant in its title, and which places Gloria at its centre. The composer began composing the work in 1887, but was interrupted by a commission for the Parasztbecsweehrt (Peasant's Honour). No wonder the exuberant melody of the Mass, the emotional, romantic arcs, the moments of almost dramatic tension and the sometimes personal chamber music - think of the brilliant violin solo before the Benedictus! - remind the listener in places of The Honour of the Peasant.
The work, written for two male soloists, orchestra and choir, was finally premiered by Mascagni in 1888, performed by his pupils in Cerignola, in southern Italy. A few years later, the work was used to celebrate the 600th anniversary of the construction of the magnificent Orvieto Cathedral.
Hungarian State Opera
The Hungarian State Opera House is the only theatre in Hungary with a large company, specialising in operas and ballets. The building is one of Budapest's most important 19th century monuments. It was built in neo-Renaissance style according to the plans of Miklós Ybl. The richly decorated interior was designed by renowned Hungarian artists, including Mór Than, Károly Lotz and Bertalan Székely.
