Composer

:

Giovanni Pergolesi

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

First Performance

:

Sep 5, 1733

Average_duration

:

109:48

Movement_count

:

24

Movement ....

Il prigionier superbo is an opera seria in three acts composed by Giovanni Pergolesi. The opera was composed in 1733 and premiered in Naples in the same year. The libretto was written by Gennaro Antonio Federico, and the opera was commissioned by the Duke of Maddaloni. The plot of Il prigionier superbo revolves around the story of a proud and arrogant prince, Arbace, who is taken prisoner by the Persian king, Artabano. Arbace is in love with Artabano's daughter, Mandane, but she is in love with another man, Oronte. Artabano offers to release Arbace if he can convince Mandane to marry him. Arbace agrees, but when he fails, he is sentenced to death. However, Mandane intervenes and convinces her father to spare Arbace's life. In the end, Arbace and Mandane are united, and Oronte is revealed to be the long-lost son of Artabano. The music of Il prigionier superbo is characterized by its lyrical melodies, expressive harmonies, and dramatic recitatives. Pergolesi's use of the orchestra is particularly noteworthy, with the strings and winds often used to create a sense of tension and drama. The opera also features several arias and duets that showcase the vocal talents of the singers. Il prigionier superbo was a popular opera in its time and was performed throughout Italy and Europe. It was also influential in the development of opera seria, which became the dominant form of opera in the 18th century. Today, Il prigionier superbo is still occasionally performed, and its music continues to be admired for its beauty and expressiveness.

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