A master of the bel canto style, Vincenzo Bellini (1801–35) ranks among his era's most popular composers. His much studied and frequently performed two-act opera, La Sonnambula (The Sleepwalker), is particularly admired for the simplicity and economy of its orchestration and the inspired lyricism of the vocal writings.
This story of two lovers unfolds in an idyllic village setting and has been a favorite with audiences and musicians since its first performance in 1831. The role of Amina has been performed by famed mezzo-sopranos from Jenny Lind to Maria Callas and Cecilia Bartoli. This inexpensive edition, reprinted from an authoritative publication, offers a sturdy, affordable resource for conductors, scholars, musicians, and music lovers.