Composer

:

Antonio Literes

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

93:36

"El estrago en la fineza o Jupiter y Semele" is a Spanish Baroque opera composed by Antonio Literes. It premiered on February 22, 1718, at the Buen Retiro Palace in Madrid, Spain. The opera is divided into three acts and features a libretto by Pedro Calderón de la Barca. The first act of the opera introduces the audience to the love affair between Jupiter and Semele, a mortal woman. The second act focuses on the jealousy of Juno, Jupiter's wife, and her attempts to destroy Semele. The final act depicts the tragic end of Semele, who is consumed by Jupiter's lightning bolt. The music of "El estrago en la fineza o Jupiter y Semele" is characterized by its use of Spanish and Italian influences. The opera features arias, recitatives, and choruses, with a particular emphasis on the latter. The choruses are often used to express the emotions of the characters and to comment on the action of the opera. The vocal writing in "El estrago en la fineza o Jupiter y Semele" is also notable for its virtuosity. The arias feature elaborate ornamentation and require a high level of technical skill from the singers. The opera also features a number of instrumental interludes, including a sinfonia at the beginning of the second act. Overall, "El estrago en la fineza o Jupiter y Semele" is a prime example of Spanish Baroque opera. Its combination of Spanish and Italian influences, use of choruses, and virtuosic vocal writing make it a unique and compelling work.

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