Manuel de Falla’s La Vida Breve (The Short Life) is a two-act opera in Spanish, with a libretto by Carlos Fernández Shaw. It was first performed in 1913 in Nice, France, and has since become one of the most popular Spanish operas of all time.
The opera tells the story of Salud, a young gypsy woman who is in love with Paco, a wealthy young man. Paco’s family is opposed to the match, and Salud is eventually driven to suicide. Falla’s music in La Vida Breve is infused with the rhythms and melodies of Spanish folk music. The opera opens with a lively and energetic Overture that sets the scene for the passionate and dramatic story that follows.
For violinists eager to take on the challenge of Falla’s “La Vida Breve Serenade,” an intermediate to advanced skill level is recommended. The piece requires a command of various bowing techniques, agile fingerwork, and a nuanced interpretation of the expressive elements inherent in Spanish music.
