What is the 'Anvil Chorus'?
The 'Anvil Chorus' is the English translation of the Coro di Zingari chorus which is sung in act 2, scene 1 of Giuseppe Verdi's 1853 opera Il trovatore. It is also known as 'Vedi! Le fosche'
As well as being one of the greatest composers of all time, he was also one of the best opera composers ever and one of the greatest Italian composers ever
What is the 'Anvil Chorus' about?
The chorus features Spanish Gypsies singing the praises of hard work, good wine, and Gypsy women while striking their anvils.
Anvil Chorus lyrics in English
See how the clouds melt away from the face of the sky when the sun shines, its brightness beaming; just as a widow, discarding her black robes, shows all her beauty in brilliance gleaming.
So, to work now! Lift up your hammers!
Who turns the Gypsy's day from gloom to brightest sunshine? His lovely Gypsy maid!
Men: Fill up the goblets! New strength and courage flow from lusty wine to soul and body.
All: See how the rays of the sun play and sparkle and give to our wine gay new splendor. So, to work now!
Who turns the Gypsy's day from gloom to brightest sunshine? His lovely Gypsy maid!
Anvil Chorus lyrics in original Italian
Zingari e zingare: Vedi! Le fosche notturne spoglie De' cieli sveste l'immensa volta; Sembra una vedova che alfin si toglie i bruni panni ond'era involta.
All'opra! all'opra! Dàgli, martella.
Chi del gitano i giorni abbella? La zingarella!
Uomini: Versami un tratto; lena e coraggio Il corpo e l'anima traggon dal bere.
Tutti: Oh guarda, guarda! del sole un raggio Brilla più vivido nel mio [tuo] bicchiere! All'opra, all'opra!
Chi del gitano i giorni abbella? La zingarella!
Main image: Anvil Chorus from Il Trovatore © Ron Scherl/Redferns/Getty Images