Composer

:

Ferruccio Busoni

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

Nov 1914 - Aug 1916

Publication Date

:

1918

First Performance

:

May 11, 1917

Average_duration

:

57:35

Movement_count

:

22

Movement ....

Arlecchino is an opera composed by Ferruccio Busoni in 1917. The plot revolves around the character of Arlecchino, a servant in love with the beautiful Colombina. However, Colombina is in love with Harlequin, another servant. Arlecchino tries to win Colombina's heart by performing various tricks and stunts, but to no avail. In the end, he realizes that he cannot win her love and decides to leave the town. The opera is divided into three movements. The first movement is titled "The Servants' Dance" and features a lively and energetic dance performed by the servants. The second movement is titled "The Lovers' Scene" and features a romantic duet between Colombina and Harlequin. The third movement is titled "Arlecchino's Departure" and features a melancholic and somber melody as Arlecchino leaves the town. One of the characteristics of the opera is its use of commedia dell'arte, a form of Italian theater that features stock characters and improvised dialogue. Busoni incorporates elements of commedia dell'arte into the opera, such as the characters of Arlecchino, Colombina, and Harlequin. Arlecchino premiered on May 11, 1917, at the Stadttheater in Zurich, Switzerland. The opera was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it has since become one of Busoni's most popular works. Its use of commedia dell'arte and its lively and energetic music have made it a favorite among opera-goers.

More....