La Revoltosa

Ruperto Chapí y Lorente (1851-1909) was a Spanish composer. He wrote a large number of symphonic, band, choral and chamber works, as well as zarzuelas and operas and is considered one of the most popular and important composers of his time. Chapí wrote zarzuelas in all shapes and sizes, including the 3-act 'Zarzuela Grande' and the one-act 'Género Chico' forms. His most celebrated work is 'La Revoltosa', written in the latter style. Many of the preludes to his zarzuelas (including those to 'El Tambor de Granaderos' and 'La Patria Chica') have remained staple items in Spanish orchestral concerts.

The complete score of 'La Revoltosa' lasts only 35 minutes, and a fair amount of that is given over to orchestral prelude, interludes and street music. The music has wit and huge vitality, so 'La Revoltosa' has enjoyed constant and well-merited popularity. It has been the inspiration for several films, as well as providing the template for a whole hatful of highly enjoyable 'Género Chico' imitations.