"A te, o cara" from I Puritani
Music: Vincenzo Bellini
Text: Carlo Pepoli
During the English Civil War, the Royalist Arturo has fallen in love with Elvira, the daughter of a Parliamentarian. Despite their grave political differences, her father has been persuaded to allow them to marry. Arriving for the wedding celebration, Arturo greets his bride.
A te, o cara, amor talora
Mi guidò furtivo e in pianto;
Or mi guida a te d’accanto
Tra la gioia e l’esultar.
Al brillar di sì bell’ora,
Se rammento il mio tormento
Si raddoppia il mio contento,
M’è più caro il palpitar.
Cielo arridi a voti miei,
Benedici a tanto amor
To you, dear one, love at times
has led me furtively and in tears;
now it guides me to your side
in joy and exultation.
In the radiance of such a beautiful hour
if I renew my torment,
it redoubles my happiness,
and I cherish my heart’s beating.
Heaven smile at my vows,
bless this great love.
"La mia letizia infondere"
from I Lombardi alla prima crociata
MUSIC: Giuseppe Verdi
TEXT: Temistocle Solera
In Syrian Antioch, the Muslim prince Oronte has fallen in love with the Italian captive Griselda, whose father is leading a crusade to the Holy Land. Oronte hopes that his love can overcome the many obstacles he faces to win her.
Mortal di me più lieto non ha la terra!
La mia letizia infondere
Vorrei nel suo bel core!
Vorrei destar co’palpiti
Del mio beato amore,
Tante armonie nell’etere
Quanti pianeti egli ha:
Ah! ir seco al cielo, ed ergermi,
Dove mortal non va.
There is no happier man on earth than I!
If only my heartfelt joy
could stir her feelings!
If only she could share my
passionate love,
then the universe would be
filled with harmony.
Ah! If only I could fly with her to heaven,
where no mortal can go
