“Puccini’s Later Years”

In the later years of his life, Giacomo Puccini produced fewer works, but those he did complete—the lyrical La rondine, the remarkable miniatures of Il trittico and the grand, unfinished Turandot—reveal a composer still constantly evolving. These operas, staples of the repertory today, showcase Puccini experimenting with new harmonic language, dramatic structures, and emotional depth—and are all deeply embedded in the shifting cultural landscape of the early 20th century.

In this episode, musicologist Flora Willson is joined again by music historian and editor of Opera Rara’s restoration of the final 1921 version of La rondine, Ditlev Rindom, to examine the composer’s mature style. Together, they unpack how Puccini’s later works challenge conventional narratives, balancing lush romanticism with modernist impulses—and even asking what it means to compose opera in a rapidly changing world.

Lives in Song: Puccini focuses on one of the most influential opera composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Hosted by music historian and writer Flora Willson, the series explores Puccini’s artistic development, historical context, and enduring impact through the lens of his operas.

Across this season, Flora is joined by a range of expert guests to examine the world that shaped Puccini—from his roots in Lucca to his emergence as a key figure in Italian opera. The second season of Lives in Song investigates the personal and cultural forces that informed Puccini’s compositions, offering listeners a deeper understanding of his music and the man behind his enduring works.

Premiered on Opera Rara’s YouTube channel. Register to receive email ​reminders and a link to the show notes following the stream.