About
- Duration: 1hrs 10min, no intermission
- Music: Carl Orff
- Language: Latin, Middle High German
- Venue: Arena di Verona
Carmina Burana by Carl Orff is one of the most powerful choral works of the 20th century and unfolds with particular intensity in the monumental setting of the Arena di Verona.
The powerful music, large chorus, and driving rhythms make this performance an extraordinary open-air experience.
Based on medieval texts from the Carmina Burana collection, the cantata combines archaic sound worlds with an immediate musical energy.
The famous chorus O Fortuna is one of the most striking moments in music history and forms the dramatic frame of the entire composition.
Ticket information
- Select your preferred date and seating category directly.
- E-tickets are sent by email after purchase (print@home).
The Work
Carl Orff’s composition premiered in 1937 in Frankfurt and is now one of the most frequently performed choral works worldwide.
The texts originate from a medieval collection of poems and songs dealing with themes such as fate, love, nature, and the joys of life.
Orff developed a distinctive musical language with powerful rhythms, memorable melodies, and impressive choral writing.
These elements gain a particular acoustic impact within the open architecture of the Arena di Verona.
Carmina Burana at the Arena di Verona
The performance of Carmina Burana at the Arena di Verona combines monumental music with the unique atmosphere of the Roman amphitheatre.
Chorus, orchestra, and soloists create an impressive sound experience that fills the entire space of the Arena.
Alongside opera productions such as Aida, Nabucco, or Turandot, special musical events like Carmina Burana are an integral part of the Arena di Verona Festival.
👉 Discover more operas on the Opera in Verona 2026 page
FAQ
What is Carmina Burana at the Arena di Verona?
Carmina Burana is a staged performance of Carl Orff’s famous cantata. Based on medieval poems about fate, love and the pleasures of life, the work is one of the most powerful choral compositions in classical music.
How long does Carmina Burana last?
The performance lasts about 1 hour and 10 minutes and is presented without an intermission.
In which language is Carmina Burana performed?
The texts are mainly sung in Latin, with some passages in Middle High German and Old French.
Is Carmina Burana an opera?
No. Carmina Burana is a scenic cantata for choir, soloists and orchestra, often presented with staging and choreography.
