Librettist Eugène Scribe (1791–1861) and composer Giacomo Meyerbeer (1791–1864), the leaders of French grand opera, created works with exciting historical plots and spectacular stage effects. French Grand (and Not So Grand) Opera (CHWM 443–48, NAWM 139, 144, and 146) Singspiel was at the root of German opera, and composers intensified its national features while absorbing Romantic elements from French opera. In Italy, Rossini, Donizetti, Bellini, and Verdi created a new Italian tradition in opera, and their works have been performed ever since. Paris became the operatic capital of Europe and French grand opera was designed to appeal to middle-class audiences.

The music itself now became the most important element of an opera’s success, and a permanent repertory of operas began to emerge. Librettists addressed issues that spoke to a broad audience and used a variety of subjects and settings. Opera was popular with audiences of all classes and professions. Chapter 19: Opera and Music Drama in the Nineteenth Century

German opera music