Ancient tragedy, yet modern music: musical compositions in the classical performances (1921–39)

Abstract

Abstract This contribution aims to analyse the role of music in the revival of Greek theatre that characterized twentieth-century Italy. In particular, it explores and compares the music composed for INDA productions between 1921 and 1939. From the beginning of the festival, music occupied a crucial role, thanks to Ettore Romagnoli’s emphasis on the musical component in reviving ancient Greek drama. The years from 1921 to 1927 were characterized by the collaboration between Romagnoli and Giuseppe Mulè, who attempted to revive ancient Greek music according to modern criteria. By 1930, the festival, run by an entirely Fascist committee, had taken on a nationalistic character, and music was integral to this. Indeed, during these years (1930–39), music acquired a pivotal role in emphasizing the heroic instances of ancient drama that had become functional to the Regime’s policy. Moreover, it was considered indispensable for this increasingly mass-oriented type of performance.