Cavalleria Rusticana Open12 Parts

Premiered on May 17, 1890, at the Teatro Costanzi in Rome, Cavalleria Rusticana by Pietro Mascagni marked a turning point in opera history. Based on a short story and play by Giovanni Verga, the opera inaugurated the verismo (realism) movement in Italian opera, portraying raw emotion and everyday life in a Sicilian village. The libretto follows the tragic love triangle between Turiddu, Santuzza, and Lola. Mascagni’s lush orchestration and sweeping melodies—especially the famed “Intermezzo”—elevated this one-act work to lasting fame. Its intensity, brevity, and vivid storytelling reshaped operatic expectations.

Cavalleria for Chamber Ensemble (13-15 players)

With only one player per string part, careful attention must be given to sound balance. Unlike the Chamber Orchestra version, which includes a fuller string section, the reduced string forces can be easily overpowered by winds or percussion. We recommend subtle amplification of the strings where possible, or alternatively, strategic dynamic adjustments—such as reducing wind and percussion volume—to maintain clarity and ensemble blend. Cavalleria Rusticana for Chamber Ensemble requires:

• Flute, optional piccolo, oboe, clarinet, bassoon
• (French) Horn, trumpet
• A keyboard for harps, organ and chimes
• 1 or 2 percussionists with timpani, bass & snare drum, cymbals, tam-tam
• String quintet (1.1.1.1.1)

Open12 Edition

Open12 Editions are similar to the newer Chamber Ensemble versions.. The upgrade includes more options and higher printing standards, including cues in multi-rests and larger fonts. The Open12 Edition of Cavalleria Rusticana will remain available until the Chamber Ensemble version is issued.