Gaetano Donizetti (1797-1848):
Bella siccome un angelo
(from Don Pasquale) (1843)
Text: Giovanni Ruffini and the composer, after Angelo Annelli?s libretto for
Stefano Pavesi?s Ser Marcantonio
Original Key/Recorded Key: D-flat Major
Teach-Track begins: m. 1
Accompaniment Track begins: m. 1
Pianist: Daniel Michalak
Malatesta
Bella siccome un angelo
Beautiful as an angel
In terra pellegrino
On earth as pilgrim
Fresca siccome un giglio
Fresh as a lily
Che s'apre sul mattino.
That opens in the morning.
Occhio che parla e ride,
Eyes that speak and laugh,
Sguardo che i cor conquide,
A glance that the heart conquers
Chioma che vince l'ebano,
Hair that prevails over ebony,
Sorriso incantator!
A smile enchanting!
Pasquale
Sposa simile! O giubilo!
Bride such! Oh joy!
Non petto in cape il cor.
Not fits in chest my heart.
Malatesta
Alma innocente, ingenua,
Soul innocent, ingenuous
Che se medesma ignora.
That she herself ignores.
Modestia impareggiabile
Modesty incomparable
Bontá che v'innamora.
Goodness that will make one fall in love.
Ai miseri pietoso,
For the poor she pities,
Gentil, dolce, amoroso!
Gentle, sweet, loving!
Il ciel l'ha fatta nascere
The heaven her has made to be born
Per far beato un cor!
To make blessed a heart!