Riccardo Zandonai (1856–1944) was an Italian composer known primarily for his operatic works and contributions to the late Romantic music scene. Born in Trento, Zandonai studied at the Milan Conservatory, where he developed a style that combined lush orchestration with expressive melodies. Zandonai's most notable work is the opera "Francesca da Rimini," premiered in 1914, which remains his most performed piece. The opera is celebrated for its dramatic intensity and rich harmonic language, drawing inspiration from Dante Alighieri’s "Divine Comedy." Other significant operas include "La farsa amorosa" and "Giovanna d'Arco," showcasing his ability to blend traditional Italian operatic forms with innovative elements. His impact on music lies in his role in the transition from the verismo style of opera to a more modern expression, influencing subsequent generations of composers. While not as widely recognized today as some of his contemporaries, Zandonai's works are periodically revived and studied for their emotional depth and orchestral richness, contributing to the legacy of Italian opera in the early 20th century.