Pietro Mascagni
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Pietro Mascagni (1863-1945), Italian composer of operas, is known almost solely for his masterpiece, âCavalleria Rusticanaâ (âRustic Chivalryâ). Whilst he wrote numerous other operas, one or two of which are occasionally performed, it is âCavalleria Rusticanaâ that has prospered ever since.
It was Macagniâs first opera, and introduced the âverismoâ style (see Giacomo Puccini). The plot, set in a Sicilian village involves adultery, pregnancy, and ultimately, death. It was a sudden departure from the upper-class plots of previous operas. The âintermezzoâ during a break in the action, and following chorus are the most well known parts of the opera.