Arturo Vigna conducted the Met orchestra and chorus. “Madama Butterfly” had its Met premiere in 1907 with Geraldine Farrar in the title role and Enrico Caruso in the role of Pinkerton. The challenge for the singer is to have stamina that will allow for the two hour second act more importantly she must be able to convey an array of emotions and characteristics. Her music develops from that of a teenager with whimsical instances to that of a dramatic soprano who must have the skills to grip the audience at the tragic ending.

However, the opera’s most iconic music is that of the title character Cio-Cio-San. One of the most memorable and inventive moments in the opera is a humming chorus. The music for Madama Butterfly is among the most popular in the repertoire as Puccini was able to create a score filled with subtle colorings and sonorities throughout that emulate the Asian culture.

19 Puccini’s beloved “Madama Butterfly” will premiere in Anthony Minghella’s beloved production with acclaimed soprano Kristine Opolais.

Metropolitan opera hd 2015 2016