Mascagni, Pietro. (1863-1945) [English Translation by Frederic E. Weatherley]

"Cavalleria Rusticana." - Signed Presentation Score

London: Ascherberg, Hopwood & Crew, Ltd.. [ca. 1910]. Vocal score of one of the most popular of all Italian operas, inscribed and signed by the composer on the title (translated from the Italian): "To dearest Signor Trossell / in grateful memory of the lyric season at the Hippodrome and as a sign of sincere esteem and friendship / P. Mascagni / London 24th March 1912" to title. Upright folio, 168 pp. [PN] 605. Crimson modern morocco-backed boards, spine gilt, 4to. Fine.

Cavalleria Rusticana is the most well-known work of the composer who wrote 15 additional operas. The publisher Sonzogno announced a competition in July of 1888, open to all young Italian composers who had not yet had an opera performed on stage. Mascagni apparently had not heard of the competition until only two months before its closing date, but found his librettists and completed the work in time for submission on the final day of the competition. The opera won and was first performed in Rome at the Teatro Costanzi on May 17, 1890 with Mascagni apparently taking 40 curtain calls on opening night. It has since remained one of the most beloved of all Italian operas, frequently paired in a so-called "Cav/Pag" double-bill with Leoncavallo's Pagliacci. (16156)

Signed Document/Item Opera Printed Music