"Turandot" is an opera in three acts by Giacomo Puccini, and it was left unfinished at the time of Puccini's death in 1924. The opera's completion was entrusted to Franco Alfano, another Italian composer, based on Puccini's sketches and notes.
Here are some interesting facts about "Turandot":
Unfinished Masterpiece: Puccini completed the majority of "Turandot," but he passed away before finishing the last part of the opera. The world premiere of the incomplete opera was performed in 1926 at La Scala in Milan.
Collaboration with Franco Alfano: After Puccini's death, the responsibility of finishing "Turandot" fell to Franco Alfano. He used Puccini's sketches and instructions to complete the final scenes, allowing the opera to be performed in its entirety.
Famous Aria - "Nessun Dorma": "Nessun Dorma" is one of the most well-known arias from "Turandot." It is sung by the character Calaf in the final act and has become a widely recognized and popular piece, even outside the realm of opera.
Setting in China: "Turandot" is set in ancient China and tells the story of Princess Turandot, who requires her suitors to solve three riddles to win her hand in marriage. Failure to answer correctly results in death.
Puccini's Inspiration: Puccini was inspired to write "Turandot" after seeing a performance of Carlo Gozzi's play, also titled "Turandot." The libretto for the opera was based on this play, which itself drew from Persian and Middle Eastern sources.
Premiere at La Scala: The premiere of "Turandot" at La Scala in Milan was conducted by Arturo Toscanini, a close friend of Puccini. When the opera reached the point where Puccini's composition ended, Toscanini put down his baton, indicating the conclusion of Puccini's work.
Posthumous Recognition: Despite the challenges of completing the opera after Puccini's death, "Turandot" eventually gained popularity and is now one of Puccini's most performed works.
"Turandot" remains a significant part of the operatic repertoire and is celebrated for its dramatic storyline and powerful musical moments.