Welcome to the first edition of Opera Online! To kick of this week's clip of the week, we're turning to a tune that Puccini used throughout his opera Turandot. Here is a performance of the traditional Chinese folk song Jasmine Flowers. This music is used in association with Princess Turandot throughout the opera. The first time this music is heard is at the end of the mammoth chorus "Gira la cote!" (Grind the whetstone) in Act I as the temple boys walk through the streets of Peiking.
Here are the lyrics to the song:
Flower of jasmine, oh so fair!
Flower of jasmine, oh so fair!
Budding and blooming here and there,
Pure and fragrant all declare.
Let me take you with tender care,
Your sweetness for all to share.
Jasmine fair, oh jasmine fair.
Our website of the week features soprano Ermonela Jaho who sings the role of the slave girl Liu. Get to know a little bit about Ermonela, see photos of her, and more at her official website.
Until next week...
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