Sunday 18 January 2015
Tune of the Day: Por qué de mis ojos
from “La Revoltosa”, transcribed for solo flute
This duet, sung by the characters Felipe and Mari Pepa, is possibly the most famous piece from Ruperto Chapí's 1897 zarzuela La Revoltosa, one of the finest works of the genre. It is said that Camille Saint-Saëns, who was present at the premiere, commented: “How is it possible that in Spain they call this genre ‛small’ (chico)?”. What the composer of Carmen probably didn't know is that the adjective referred to the length of these comic opera pieces, rather than to their quality.
Thanks to Pablo for suggesting this piece!