Composer

:

Giovanni Paisiello

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1792

First Performance

:

May 16, 1792

Average_duration

:

139:20

"I Giuochi d'Agrigento" is an opera composed by Giovanni Paisiello, an Italian composer of the Classical era. The opera was composed in 1794 and premiered on January 26, 1796, at the Teatro San Carlo in Naples, Italy. The libretto was written by Giuseppe Palomba. The plot of the opera revolves around the ancient Greek city of Agrigento, where the citizens are preparing for the annual athletic games. The main character, Aristea, is a young woman who is in love with the athlete Alceste. However, Alceste is in love with another woman, Timarete, who is also a participant in the games. The plot thickens when Timarete's father, the tyrant Polibo, forbids her from participating in the games, and Aristea takes her place in order to win Alceste's heart. The opera is divided into three acts, each with its own set of movements. The first act introduces the characters and sets the stage for the upcoming games. The second act is where the drama unfolds, with Aristea taking Timarete's place in the games and Alceste realizing his true feelings for Aristea. The third act concludes with the games and the resolution of the love triangle. "I Giuochi d'Agrigento" is characterized by its lively and energetic music, with a mix of arias, duets, and ensemble pieces. The opera also features a number of dance sequences, which were a popular element of operas during the Classical era. The music is composed in a style that is typical of Paisiello, with a focus on melody and clear, simple harmonies. Overall, "I Giuochi d'Agrigento" is a charming and entertaining opera that showcases Paisiello's talent as a composer. Its premiere was well-received, and it remains a popular work in the repertoire of Italian opera.

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