Carmen: 137 Years Later

Today, March 3, marks the anniversary of Bizet’s Carmen, which premiered on this day in Paris in 1875.  With this opera, Bizet ushered in the verismo opera movement.

The term "Verismo" is an Italian term meaning "realism" or "realistic."  This is a term that has been utilized when referring to post-Romantic era art, and has found an important place in identifying the type of operas seen in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, most prominently in those of Puccini.

The verismo opera seeks to represent the "real life" experiences of the time period in which it is set.  This is offset by theatric violence and drama, and usually ends badly for the main characters.  Here are a few of the most renowned Carmen arias to perk your interest in learning more about this musical treasure!