Zarzuela: La Viuda Alegre

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Franz Lehár's "Zarzuela: La Viuda Alegre," a captivating operetta that showcases the composer's unparalleled talent for blending wit, romance, and exquisite music. Originally titled "The Merry Widow," this operetta is a cornerstone of the operetta genre, first performed in 1905 and renowned for its lively melodies and intricate libretto by Viktor Léon and Leo Stein.

This digital release by Digital World Music brings you the full operetta in a concise 55-minute duration, featuring all the iconic arias and ensemble pieces that have made "La Viuda Alegre" a beloved classic. From the stirring "Preludio" to the playful "Estamos Solos, ¡Qué Placer!" and the dramatic "No Salgo de Mi Asombro y el Hecho Cierto Es," each track is a testament to Lehár's mastery of orchestration and his ability to create memorable, character-driven music.

"La Viuda Alegre" is not just an operetta; it's a cultural phenomenon that has captivated audiences for over a century. This album offers a unique opportunity to experience the operetta in its entirety, performed with the same charm and sophistication that have made it a staple of the operatic repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned operetta enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this recording promises an engaging and delightful listening experience.

Franz Lehár, born in 1870 in Komárno, Kingdom of Hungary (now Slovakia), was a renowned Austro-Hungarian composer who left an indelible mark on the world of operetta. Throughout his illustrious career spanning over five decades, Lehár enchanted audiences with his lighthearted and comic works, becoming one of the most significant composers of operetta in classical music history. His most celebrated creation, "The Merry Widow" (Die lustige Witwe), achieved global acclaim and remains his most famous piece. Lehár's compositions are celebrated for their fine craftsmanship and enduring charm. Despite initial aspirations towards grand opera, it was his operettas that secured his legacy, making him the leading composer of operettas in the 20th century. Lehár passed away in Bad Ischl in 1948, leaving behind a substantial body of work that continues to captivate and inspire.