Verdi, Otello Otello is an opera of four acts composed by Giuseppe Verdi. It was premiered in La Scala on February 5th, 1887. It is based on William Shakespeare’s tragedy, Othello. The libretto is by Arrigo Boito. The opera lasts for about 2 hours and 20 minutes. Otello takes place at the end of the 15th century, at the port town of the Cypriot. Act 1 starts with a violent storm. The fleet led by Otello returns while the residents of the island eagerly awaits. The residents delight in victory at the reports of the defeat of the Turkish enemy fleets. Evil Iago, who is jealous that Cassio has become captain, pressures Cassio-who cannot handle alcohol- to drink more wine. Completely drunk, Cassio wounds Montano, who stepped in to stop a quarrel. …show more content…
The music becomes simple with the appearance of Cassio, showing his character. It is in C major and consisting of half notes and quarter notes.
As Iago says, “Inaffia l’ugola!” (Come wet your whistle!), it is clear from the minor key that Iago’s intentions are malicious. The highest note goes up to an A5. The rhythm in the orchestra is the same in “Devil’s Trill Sonata” (Tartini). On the other side, scenes of Rodrigo and the chorus are written in major keys, with the intent firmly felt.
As the act continues, Cassio’s drunkenness is revealed by the rhythm, as well as Iago’s “Devil’s Trill” rhythm after Montano rebukes Cassio. Although the rhythm here is light, the gloomy key of G-sharp minor have a tremendous effect.
As Otello reemerges, Verdi takes time going from minor to major. This depicts Otello’s anger being gradually subsided. The orchestra also shows the angry character with rising sostenutos.
The cast leaves, leaving Otello and Desdemona to sing the famous duet “Gia nella notte densa” (Now as the darkness deepens). This duet is not only sweet, but gives an analysis of the two characters. As Desdemona enters, the music becomes F major, increasingly sweet and uplifting, representing her feelings. Then, as Otello sings in reply, the harmony turns to F minor, showing a subtle discrepancy between the two, foreshadowing