On this day in history... 1904

In 1904 Giacomo Puccini premiered his opera "Madama Butterfly" at La Scala generating disappointing reviews and forcing him to rewrite the opera. It is now one of the most beloved and performed operas in the repertoire. 

The scene I am showing here is Lieutenant Pinkerton awaiting the arrival of Cio Cio San at his home in Japan. Cio Cio San is being escorted to her betrothal by the women of the village while they sing the ethereal "Quanto cielo, quanto mar". The first time I heard that beautiful music I fell instantly in love with it. In fact, when I got married I had the harpist play the song as we entered the area where our ceremony took place.  (Quanto Cielo begins around the 6:25 mark)

Enjoy this beautiful scene.