This research studies the importance of Soprano Norina in the opera Don Pasquale by Gaetano Donizetti (1797-1848) and writer's view of the characteristics and interpretation of Cavatina. It focuses on the interpretation of the Cavatina “Quel guard oil cavaliere in mezzo al cor trafisse” sung by Norina. It also uses the views on the opera story analysis, act and scene deployment, and the analysis of Cavatina and other repertoire sung by Norina as supporting evidence. The study leads to the conclusion as follows: 1. Norina is a very important role to connect opera story. Although the opera is named Don Pasquale, Norina actually is the key role connecting the different parts of the opera. 2. The feature of the Cavatina is very special, which includes two parts: one is Andante tempo and another is Allegretto. They are very different on musical styles and metaphysical meaning of the lyrics. 3. The combination of music and lyrics in Cavatina is wonderful. Donizetti’s creativeness as well as his profound understanding of human voice has produced a seamless combination of lyrics and music in Don Pasquale. 4. The combination of harmony and lyrics in Cavatina is important, which at times assists to highlight the expression of the artistic meaning of the lyrics and situation in the opera. 5. The interpretation of Cavatina is light and joyous. Norina is a light lyric soprano in this opera, and her voice is full of delight, warmth and smiles. The characteristic of her role is youthfulness, happiness and wittiness.
Min-Wen Liao Vocal Recital:
G. F. Händel (1685-1759): V’adoro, pupille from“Giulio Cesare”
G. F. Händel (1685-1759): Where’er you walk from “Semele”
S. Donaudy (1879-1925): Vaghissima sembianza
F. Schubert (1879-1925): An die Musik
F. Schubert (1797-1828): Frühlingsglaube
G.. Donizetti (1797-1828): Quel guard oil cavaliere in mezzo al cor trafisse from”Don Pasquale”
G. Fauré (1797-1848): En prière
G. Fauré (1845-1924): “Poéme d’un Jour”,Op. .21
S. Barber (1910-1981): The Crucufixion
S. Barber (1910-1981): The Daisies