Composer

:

Franz Schubert

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1827 - 1828

Average_duration

:

130:56

"Der Graf von Gleichen" is an opera composed by Franz Schubert in 1818. The plot revolves around the story of Count Gleichen, who is in love with the beautiful Countess Mathilde. However, Mathilde is already engaged to another man, and the Count is heartbroken. He decides to leave his home and travel to foreign lands to forget his love. The opera is divided into three movements. The first movement is set in the Count's castle, where he is preparing to leave. He sings a melancholic aria about his unrequited love for Mathilde. The second movement takes place on the road, where the Count meets a group of gypsies. They invite him to join them in their travels, and he agrees. The Count sings a lively song about his new life on the road. The third movement is set in a foreign land, where the Count has settled with the gypsies. He has become their leader and is respected by all. However, he still longs for Mathilde and sings a beautiful aria about his love for her. Suddenly, Mathilde appears, having followed the Count to his new home. She tells him that she has broken off her engagement and wants to be with him. The Count is overjoyed and they sing a duet about their love. "Der Graf von Gleichen" premiered on March 1, 1869, at the Theater an der Wien in Vienna. The opera was not well received by critics and was only performed a few times during Schubert's lifetime. However, it has since gained popularity and is now considered one of Schubert's most important works. The opera is characterized by Schubert's signature melodic style, with beautiful arias and duets that showcase the emotions of the characters. The use of the gypsy theme in the second movement adds a lively and exotic element to the opera. Overall, "Der Graf von Gleichen" is a beautiful and emotional work that showcases Schubert's talent as a composer.

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