Mesicku na nebi hlubokem "Song to the Moon", op. 114

"Měsíčku na nebi hlubokém" (Song to the Moon) from Antonín Dvořák's opera "Rusalka", Op. 114, is one of the most famous and poignant pieces in Czech operatic literature. This aria, often referred to as "Song to the Moon," is sung by the main character, Rusalka, a water nymph, in the first act.

The aria reveals Rusalka's deep yearning for human experience and love. She addresses the moon in the sky, asking it to reveal her heart to the prince she loves and to carry her longing to him. The music is of lyrical beauty and emotional depth, with the melody reflecting Rusalka's longing and inner conflicts.

Dvořák's rich orchestration combined with the haunting, melancholic melody of the aria creates an atmosphere of dream and longing. It is a portrayal of love and hope overshadowed by the impossibility of such love – a central theme in "Rusalka".

This aria is renowned not only for its musical brilliance but also for its ability to evoke profound emotions in the audience, making it a highlight of the operatic repertoire. It is often performed in concerts and recitals independently of the opera, remaining one of the most beloved and emotionally powerful arias in the world of classical music.