Pietro Mascagni, "Intermezzo" Cavalleria Rusticana

Pietro Mascagni secured a place in music history when he composed the Intermezzo for Cavalleria Rusticana. Part of an emerging style called verismo opera, the Intermezzo is the kind of piece that can crawl under your skin and bring tears to your eyes. It is one of the most beautiful melodies ever written. I must admit that I am by no means an opera fan but I must also admit that two of the best melodies I know are from Operas: The Intermezzo I teach here is one and the other is Puccini's Nessun Dorma. Italians have a way of touching people's heart with magnificent melodies that literally make their way straight to the heart and soul. Mascagni brings to mind the work of Contemporary Roman composer Ennio Morricone.