Composer

:

André Campra

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Average_duration

:

12:00

André Campra's 'La Dispute de l'Amour et de l'Hymen' is a one-act opera-ballet that premiered on February 15, 1712, at the Paris Opera. The libretto was written by Antoine Houdar de la Motte, and the work was commissioned by the Duke of Orleans. The opera-ballet consists of a prologue and three acts, with a total of 23 musical numbers. The prologue sets the scene for the dispute between Love and Hymen, who are both vying for the affections of a young couple, Églé and Dorilas. The first act begins with a pastoral scene, where Églé and Dorilas express their love for each other. However, their happiness is short-lived as Love and Hymen appear, each claiming that they are the true source of happiness in a marriage. The act ends with Églé and Dorilas torn between the two forces. The second act takes place in a temple, where Love and Hymen continue their dispute. They each present their case to the gods, who ultimately decide that Love is the true source of happiness in a marriage. Églé and Dorilas are reunited, and the act ends with a celebration of their love. The final act takes place in a garden, where the wedding of Églé and Dorilas is celebrated. The act features several dance numbers, including a minuet and a gavotte. The opera-ballet ends with a final chorus, praising the power of love. 'La Dispute de l'Amour et de l'Hymen' is characterized by its lively and colorful music, which features a mix of French and Italian styles. The work also showcases Campra's skill in writing for both vocal and instrumental forces, with several virtuosic arias and intricate dance numbers. The opera-ballet was well-received at its premiere and remained popular throughout the 18th century. Today, it is considered one of Campra's most important works and a significant example of French Baroque opera-ballet.

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