The libretto, by Charles Beauquier, is based on Schiller's 1784 play, Die Verschwörung des Fiesco zu Genua, an account of the conspiracy in 1547 led by Giovanni Luigi Fieschi against the ruling Doria family.

The concert premiere took place on 27 July 2006 at the Festival de Radio France et Montpellier with Roberto Alagna in the title role.

Scene 1: A crowded market place Hassan plies the townspeople with drink and incites gossip.

By the end of the scene Verrina’s confidence in Fiesque is restored, and the building blocks for the revolution set in place.

Julie enters and sings about the pleasures of being a coquette, but eventually confesses her genuine love for Fiesque.

At its climax, however, Fiesque reveals his fidelity to Leonore, and denounces Julie for being guilty of intent to murder.

Eventually, disillusioned by the change in his friend and fearful for the future of the country, Verrina kills Fiesque.