Composer

:

Carl Michael Ziehrer

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Singspiel

'Herr und Frau Biedermeier' is an operetta composed by Carl Michael Ziehrer in 1896. The plot revolves around the lives of a middle-class couple, Herr and Frau Biedermeier, who live in Vienna during the Biedermeier period of the early 19th century. The Biedermeier period was characterized by a focus on domesticity, simplicity, and conservatism, and the operetta reflects these values. The operetta is divided into three acts, each with its own set of movements. The first act introduces the audience to the Biedermeiers and their daily lives. They are a contented couple, happy in their simple existence. However, their lives are disrupted when a group of Bohemian artists move into the apartment next door. The artists are loud, boisterous, and unconventional, and their presence causes the Biedermeiers great distress. The second act sees the Biedermeiers attempting to deal with their new neighbors. They try to be polite and accommodating, but the artists continue to disrupt their lives. The tension between the two groups reaches a climax when the artists throw a wild party, and the Biedermeiers are forced to call the police. In the final act, the Biedermeiers and the artists come to a resolution. They realize that they have more in common than they thought and that they can learn from each other. The Biedermeiers become more open-minded, and the artists learn to appreciate the value of domesticity and simplicity. 'Herr und Frau Biedermeier' premiered on December 26, 1896, at the Theater an der Wien in Vienna. The operetta was well-received, and it became one of Ziehrer's most popular works. The music is characterized by its lightness and charm, reflecting the values of the Biedermeier period. The operetta also features a number of catchy tunes, including the famous waltz "Wiener Bürger." Overall, 'Herr und Frau Biedermeier' is a charming and lighthearted operetta that reflects the values of the Biedermeier period. It is a celebration of domesticity, simplicity, and the joys of everyday life. The music is delightful, and the plot is engaging, making it a popular work that continues to be performed today.

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