Aida: Act I, Scena: Ritorna vincitor (soprano): Serious Opera, Orchestra Accompaniment, Full Score (EDWIN F KALMUS)

AIDA, with music by Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901) and a libretto by Antonio Ghislanzoni, is a staple of the operatic repertoire. The story, set in the Old Kingdom of Egypt, tells of tragic love challenged by jealousy and loyalty to country and family. Commissioned by Cairo's Khedivial Opera House, it was premiered there on December 24th, 1871 in a performance conducted by Giovanni Bottesini, although, due to a limited audience, Verdi considered the performance at La Scala in Milan on February 8th, 1872 to be the true premiere. The aria, "Ritorna vincitor!" (Return a conqueror!) is sung by Aida at the of Act I, Scene 1, after the Egyptian King declares war on Ethiopia and names Radamès the leader of the army. In the aria, Aida is torn between love for her father (King Amonasro of Ethiopia), her country, and her love for Radamès. Instrumention: 2+1(Picc).2.2.2: 4.2.3.1: Timp.Perc(1): Str (4.4.3.3.3 in set): Solo Soprano. Reprint Edition