Composer

:

Gioachino Rossini

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1812

Average_duration

:

88:51

Movement_count

:

25

Movement ....

La scala di seta (The Silken Ladder) is an opera buffa in one act composed by Gioachino Rossini in 1812. The libretto was written by Giuseppe Maria Foppa and is based on a French vaudeville play by Charles-Augustin de Bassompierre. The opera premiered on May 9, 1812, at the Teatro San Moisè in Venice, Italy. It was an immediate success and was performed frequently throughout Italy and Europe. The plot of La scala di seta revolves around the young and beautiful Giulia, who is secretly married to the handsome and charming Dorvil. However, Giulia's guardian, Dormont, has arranged for her to marry the wealthy Blansac. To keep their marriage a secret, Dorvil climbs a silken ladder to Giulia's bedroom every night. When Dormont discovers the ladder, he assumes that Giulia is having an affair and tries to catch her in the act. In the end, the truth is revealed, and Giulia and Dorvil are allowed to be together. The music of La scala di seta is characterized by Rossini's signature style of fast-paced, energetic melodies and sparkling orchestration. The opera features several memorable arias, including Giulia's "Una voce poco fa" and Dorvil's "Se la mia vita." La scala di seta is divided into two movements, with a total running time of approximately one hour. The first movement features the overture and the introduction of the characters and their motivations. The second movement is the action-packed finale, where the plot is resolved and the lovers are reunited. Overall, La scala di seta is a delightful and charming opera that showcases Rossini's talent for creating lively and entertaining music. Its popularity has endured over the years, and it remains a beloved work in the operatic repertoire.

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