Vincenzo Bellini

The Profile

Italian composer (1801–1835), leading figure of the bel canto opera style; best known for Norma, La sonnambula and I Puritani.

Born in Catania (3 November 1801). Died near Paris (23 September 1835) aged 33. Central composer of early 19th-century Italian opera; famous for long, singing melodic lines and arias such as Casta Diva from Norma.

A single evocative review imagines characters Mariella and Vincenzo and centers on Norma and the aria Casta Diva. The reviewer praises Bellini's melodic gift and the emotional power of his operas. Includes links to performances of Norma, La sonnambula and I Puritani.