Composer

:

Simon Mayr

Genre

:

Opera

Average_duration

:

01:05:45

Il sogno di Partenope is an opera composed by Simon Mayr, an Italian composer of German origin. The opera was composed in 1799 and premiered in Venice in the same year. It is a three-act opera seria, with a libretto by Luigi Romanelli. The plot of the opera revolves around the mythological figure of Partenope, the founder of the city of Naples. The story begins with Partenope dreaming of a beautiful garden, where she is visited by the god Apollo. He tells her that she must choose between three suitors: Arsace, the King of Armenia, Ormonte, the King of Scythia, and Emilio, the Prince of Naples. Partenope is torn between her love for Emilio and her duty to marry a powerful king. The first act of the opera introduces the three suitors and their attempts to win Partenope's heart. Arsace sings a passionate aria, expressing his love for Partenope, while Ormonte tries to impress her with his military prowess. Emilio, on the other hand, is hesitant to declare his love for Partenope, fearing that he will be rejected. In the second act, Partenope is visited by the sorceress Rosmira, who is disguised as a man named Eurimene. Rosmira reveals that she is in love with Arsace and asks Partenope to reject him. Partenope agrees, but when Arsace declares his love for her again, she is unable to resist him. The final act of the opera sees Emilio finally confessing his love for Partenope, but she is torn between her love for him and her duty to marry a powerful king. In the end, Partenope chooses Arsace, and Emilio accepts his fate, singing a poignant aria about the pain of unrequited love. Il sogno di Partenope is characterized by its beautiful melodies, intricate vocal writing, and dramatic intensity. Mayr's music is influenced by the operatic style of Mozart and Gluck, but also incorporates elements of Italian bel canto and German Romanticism. The opera is divided into arias, duets, and ensembles, each showcasing Mayr's skillful use of harmony and counterpoint. Overall, Il sogno di Partenope is a masterpiece of Italian opera seria, showcasing Mayr's talent as a composer and his ability to create compelling characters and dramatic situations. Its premiere in Venice in 1799 was a great success, and it remains a beloved work of the operatic repertoire to this day.

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