Composer

:

Gaetano Donizetti

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

ca. 1827

Average_duration

:

126:21

'Olivo e Pasquale' is an opera buffa in two acts composed by Gaetano Donizetti. The libretto was written by Jacopo Ferretti and was based on a play by Antonio Simeone Sografi. The opera was composed in 1827 and premiered on December 7, 1827, at the Teatro Valle in Rome. The plot of 'Olivo e Pasquale' revolves around two brothers, Olivo and Pasquale, who are both in love with the same woman, Isabella. Olivo is a wealthy merchant who is used to getting what he wants, while Pasquale is a poor artist who is struggling to make ends meet. Isabella is torn between the two brothers, but ultimately chooses Pasquale because of his artistic talent and his kind heart. The first act of the opera takes place in Olivo's house, where he is trying to convince Isabella to marry him. Pasquale arrives and Olivo tries to convince him to give up his pursuit of Isabella. Pasquale refuses and Olivo becomes angry, threatening to disown him. Isabella tries to calm the situation, but Olivo storms out of the room. The second act takes place in Pasquale's studio, where he is working on a painting. Olivo arrives and tries to bribe him to give up Isabella. Pasquale refuses and Olivo becomes violent, destroying Pasquale's painting. Isabella arrives and tries to reason with Olivo, but he refuses to listen. Pasquale challenges Olivo to a duel, but Isabella intervenes and convinces them to reconcile. The music of 'Olivo e Pasquale' is characterized by Donizetti's signature bel canto style, with beautiful melodies and intricate vocal lines. The opera features several memorable arias, including Olivo's "Ah! Non mi ridestar" and Pasquale's "Ah! Tu non sai qual pena." Overall, 'Olivo e Pasquale' is a charming and lighthearted opera that showcases Donizetti's talent for composing beautiful music. Its premiere in 1827 was well-received, and it remains a popular work in the operatic repertoire today.

More....