Il cavallo scalpita (from 'Cavalleria Rusticana') - P. Mascagni

For Baritone, Choir and and concert band.

Cavalleria Rusticana is a tempestuous drama of adultery and revenge set in a remote Italian village. Its earthy passions, bold confrontational scenes and richly melodic score set a fashion for so-called 'verismo' opera that would endure for more than a decade. Ultimately Cavalleria Rusticana became Mascagni's most successful opera. It is still a great repertoire favorite, almost always double-billed with Ruggiero Leoncavallo's Pagliacci. The aria 'Il cavallo scalpita' is sung by Alfio, a carter: He sings that, though the world is full of troubles, it doesn't bother him for he has a wonderful wife and a fun life.