This piece is a piano transcription by Italian pianist Giovanni Sgambati of a melody found in the second act of Gluck's opera "Orfeo ed Euridice". (Gluck added this melody and other parts to the opera in his second version from 1774). The opera begins with nymphs and shepherds celebrating the funeral rites of Eurydice. Orfeo, who mourns her death, is told by Cupid (the God of Love) that he can bring her back to life with the power of music. Still, according to Cupid, the plan will only work if he does not look at her until she is back in the land of living again. Upon his descent into the land of the dead, Orfeo encounters demons, calming them with his music, before entering the Elysian fields, where the blessed spirits dance. This is the scene where this beautiful melody is played. Orfeo finds Euridice and they make their way back. However, Eurydice questions him and faints, as they try to leave, causing him to look round, at which she dies once more. He laments this turn of events, comforted by Cupid, who, rewarding his obvious fidelity, restores Eurydice to life once more. The opera ends in a celebration at the temple of Cupid.