Composer

:

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1783

Average_duration

:

42:52

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

"L'Oca del Cairo" is an opera buffa in two acts composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1783. The libretto was written by Giovanni Battista Varesco, who had previously collaborated with Mozart on "Idomeneo." The premiere of the opera was planned for 1785, but due to financial difficulties, it was never performed during Mozart's lifetime. It was eventually premiered in 1952 in Salzburg. The plot of "L'Oca del Cairo" revolves around the character of Don Pippo, a wealthy nobleman who is searching for a wife. He has two potential candidates: the beautiful and virtuous Celidora, and the wealthy but unattractive Bombarda. Don Pippo is torn between his desire for love and his desire for money, and he seeks the advice of his friend, the magician Sultan. Sultan suggests that Don Pippo should marry both women, but keep them hidden from each other. Don Pippo agrees to this plan, but things quickly become complicated when Celidora's father, Leandro, arrives in town and begins to search for his daughter. Meanwhile, Bombarda becomes jealous of Celidora and begins to plot against her. The first act of the opera ends with Don Pippo's wedding to both women, but the second act sees the plot unravel as Leandro discovers his daughter's whereabouts and Bombarda's jealousy reaches a boiling point. In the end, Don Pippo is forced to choose between the two women, and he ultimately chooses Celidora. "L'Oca del Cairo" is characterized by Mozart's signature style of light, comic opera. The music is lively and playful, with a focus on vocal virtuosity and ensemble singing. The opera features several memorable arias, including Celidora's "Non so d'onde viene" and Bombarda's "Smanie implacabili." Despite its charming music and witty libretto, "L'Oca del Cairo" was not a success during Mozart's lifetime. It was overshadowed by his more famous operas, such as "The Marriage of Figaro" and "Don Giovanni." However, in recent years, it has been rediscovered and performed more frequently, allowing audiences to appreciate Mozart's lesser-known works.

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