My favorite opera, for all that its a real “espanolada” -
Spanish-ade, like lemonade.
Its got more truly memorable bits than any three others.
The greatest version I recall is the most recent Met one (ten years ago?) with Elina Garanca . She can really belt it out, while being a superb actress. Her Carmen is TOUGH. Savage indeed, and way bigger than life.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2snTkaD64U
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pq9sb93hQnY
The best Spanish music was written by the French.