Tosca: “We praise Thee, O God”

We are exploring timeless arias from Giacomo Puccini’s Tosca.

Here’s “Te Deum” (“We praise Thee, O God”)

Here is my favorite evil character in all of opera. I don’t think I’ve ever hated a character more. Maybe this is exactly what makes Tosca such an incredible opera: It’s built on stark contrast – between Tosca’s pure, self-sacrificing love and Scarpia’s cruel, lust-driven power.

Tosca is willing to die for love. Scarpia is willing to kill for lust.

In this aria, Scarpia sings of his twisted desire for Tosca. Before diving into the fully orchestrated version, start with this gem: Antonio Pappano, music director of the Royal Opera, accompanying the phenomenal baritone Bryn Terfel. It’s raw, intimate, and chilling.

#TimelessArias

Now watch this: