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Fortune GalloAmerican opera director and producer
Date of Birth: 09.05.1878
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Gaetano Merola: American Opera Pioneer
- Entry into the Opera World
- The Birth of the San Carlo Opera Company
- Touring the United States
- Contributions to American Opera
- Other Collaborations
- Legacy
Gaetano Merola: American Opera Pioneer
Early Life and Immigration to the United StatesGaetano Merola, an American opera director and producer, was born in Italy and immigrated to the United States in 1895. He initially worked as a clerk at an Italian bank in New York City.
Entry into the Opera World
In 1910, Merola began dabbling in music management. In 1911, he was approached by a small Italian opera troupe stranded in Latin America due to financial difficulties. Merola took over the troupe, reorganized it, and incorporated local performers.
The Birth of the San Carlo Opera Company
By 1913, Merola had partially relocated the troupe to New York City, where it made its debut with a performance of Bizet's "Carmen" that December. Thus began the history of the San Carlo Opera Company, which Merola led until its dissolution in 1955.
Touring the United States
While the San Carlo Opera Company eventually acquired its own building in New York in 1927, its primary mission was to tour smaller cities, providing communities with the unique opportunity to experience opera. The company's repertoire consisted primarily of classic Italian works.
Contributions to American Opera
In the mid-1920s, Merola unsuccessfully attempted to establish a second company specializing in American operas. However, a significant milestone occurred in 1931 when Merola commissioned a film adaptation of Leoncavallo's "Pagliacci," believed to be the first film opera.
Other Collaborations
Beyond the San Carlo Opera, Merola collaborated with various ensembles, including Anna Pavlova's ballet company and the Chicago Opera.
Legacy
In 1967, Merola published his autobiography, "Lucky Rooster." He left an indelible mark on the American and international opera theater through his leadership of the San Carlo Opera Company and his promotion of opera to a wider audience.
