THE MASS MEDIA
Puccini made his breakthrough at the same time as technological developments exploded around 1900. Radio, records, films and skilfully orchestrated advertising campaigns in the new mass media created unprecedented demand. Puccini and his forward-thinking publisher Riccordi were among the first to capitalise on copyrights on a large scale. Puccini died a bi illionaire in 1924.
COMPOSITION TECHNIQUE
Puccini has a special way of composing and orchestrating that makes complex arrangements sound simple. He liked to work with clear melodic lines in large sections, which the soloists “dub” on top of in immediately catchy, melodic arias that stick in the ear.
THE SCANDALS
Puccini was good material for the press. A sea of scandals kept the interest alive. One of his maids committed suicide, but Puccini’s wife was accused of murdering her because she believed they were having an affair. The autopsy showed that the maid was a virgin, which debunked the story. Puccini managed to buy his wife’s freedom from prison. Soon he was involved with a new mistress.
SHARP PLOTS
Far too many operas have a terribly messy plot that makes the direction unclear and interest difficult to maintain. Puccini’s collaboration with librettists Illica/Giacosa is iconic and ensured sharp, transparent plots and momentum in the stories. Together they created La Bohème, Tosca and Madame Butterfly, which have been among the most performed operas for over 100 years.
AN ADMIRED PLAYBOY
Puccini was a playboy admired by many. He said of himself: I am a magnificent hunter of wild birds, opera librettos and attractive women. He was crazy about cars and had them written into his contracts as part of his fee, along with expensive travel, hotel stays and entertainment. A traffic accident in 1903, in which Puccini was trapped under his car and nearly suffocated in petrol fumes, made the front pages of Italian newspapers.
