Composer

:

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1770

Average_duration

:

175:20

Movement_count

:

26

Movement ....

'Mitridate, rè di Ponto' is an opera seria in three acts composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The libretto was written by Vittorio Amedeo Cigna-Santi and was based on a play by Jean Racine. The opera was composed in 1770 when Mozart was just 14 years old and was his first full-length opera. The opera premiered on December 26, 1770, at the Teatro Regio Ducal in Milan, Italy. The premiere was a great success, and the opera was performed several times in Milan before being staged in other cities across Europe. The plot of 'Mitridate, rè di Ponto' is set in the kingdom of Pontus, where King Mitridate is fighting against the Roman Empire. The king's two sons, Farnace and Sifare, are both in love with the same woman, Aspasia, who is also the lover of their father. Meanwhile, the Roman general Lucio Silla is plotting to overthrow Mitridate and take control of the kingdom. The opera is divided into three acts, each with its own set of arias, duets, and ensembles. The first act introduces the characters and sets up the conflict between Mitridate and Lucio Silla. The second act focuses on the love triangle between Farnace, Sifare, and Aspasia, while the third act brings the conflict to a climax and resolves the various plotlines. 'Mitridate, rè di Ponto' is characterized by its complex vocal writing, with many elaborate arias and duets that showcase the singers' virtuosity. The opera also features a number of ensembles, including a quartet and a quintet, which were unusual for the time. Overall, 'Mitridate, rè di Ponto' is a masterful example of Mozart's early operatic style, showcasing his skill at creating complex characters and intricate vocal writing. Despite its initial success, the opera is not as well-known as some of Mozart's later works, but it remains a fascinating and rewarding piece for both performers and audiences alike.

More....