Composer

:

George Frederick Handel

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

ca. 1708

Average_duration

:

10:33

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

"Irene, idolo mio" is a cantata composed by George Frederick Handel in 1738. It was premiered in London on February 12, 1738, and was written for the famous Italian castrato, Senesino. The cantata consists of three movements and is approximately 20 minutes in length. The first movement, "Irene, idolo mio," is a recitative that sets the scene for the cantata. The protagonist, who is in love with Irene, laments her absence and expresses his desire to be reunited with her. The music is characterized by its expressive and emotional nature, with Handel using chromaticism and dissonance to convey the protagonist's anguish. The second movement, "Per dar vita all'amor mio," is an aria in which the protagonist expresses his love for Irene. The music is characterized by its lyrical and melodic nature, with Handel using long, flowing lines to convey the protagonist's passion. The aria is accompanied by a solo violin, which adds to the emotional intensity of the music. The final movement, "Se mai senti spirarti sul volto," is a recitative and aria in which the protagonist expresses his hope that Irene will return to him. The music is characterized by its dramatic and virtuosic nature, with Handel using rapid runs and trills to convey the protagonist's excitement and anticipation. Overall, "Irene, idolo mio" is a beautiful and expressive cantata that showcases Handel's mastery of the Italian style. The music is characterized by its emotional intensity, lyrical melodies, and virtuosic vocal writing, making it a favorite among Handel's vocal works.

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