What does the Italian word libretto mean?
The Italian word libretto means little book. It is the diminutive form of libro, which simply translates to book.
Questions about Libretto
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who was Pietro Trapassi known as Metastasio and when did he live?
Pietro Trapassi known as Metastasio lived between 1698 and 1782. He became one of the most highly regarded librettists across all of Europe.
When did composers start writing music to prose or free verse libretti?
Since the late 19th century some composers have written music to prose or free verse libretti. This practice marked a shift from earlier traditions where opera librettos were written in verse.
Why did Lorenzo Da Ponte lament the silence regarding his name in 18th century London reviews?
Lorenzo Da Ponte lamented this silence in his memoirs because even in late 18th century London reviews rarely mentioned the name of the librettist. Librettists historically received less prominent credit than the composer.
How do printed scores differ from separate libretto texts in Puccini's Turandot aria Nessun dorma?
In Puccini's Turandot aria Nessun dorma the final lines in the libretto read Tramontate stelle All'alba vincerò. However in the score they are sung as Tramontate stelle Tramontate stelle All'alba vincerò Vincerò Vincerò.