Composer

:

Gioachino Rossini

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1812

Average_duration

:

140:18

"Ciro in Babilonia" is an opera composed by Gioachino Rossini in 1812. The plot is based on the biblical story of King Belshazzar and the fall of Babylon. The opera is set in Babylon, where King Ciro (Cyrus) has conquered the city and is trying to establish peace and order. However, the Babylonians are not happy with their new ruler and plot against him. The opera premiered on March 14, 1812, at the Teatro Comunale in Ferrara, Italy. It was Rossini's first opera for the Teatro Comunale and was well-received by the audience. The opera was later revised and performed in Naples in 1823. The opera consists of two acts and is written in the bel canto style, which emphasizes beautiful singing and vocal virtuosity. The music is characterized by Rossini's signature style of fast-paced, energetic melodies and intricate vocal runs. The first act opens with a chorus of Babylonians lamenting their defeat and the loss of their city. Ciro enters and tries to reassure them that he is a just ruler and will bring peace to the city. However, the Babylonians are not convinced and plot against him. The second act opens with a scene in which Ciro is visited by the prophet Daniel, who warns him of the Babylonians' plot. Ciro decides to hold a banquet to celebrate his victory and to try to win over the Babylonians. However, during the banquet, a mysterious hand appears and writes on the wall, "Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin," which Daniel interprets as a sign of the Babylonians' impending doom. The opera ends with the fall of Babylon and Ciro's triumph. The music is characterized by Rossini's use of dramatic choruses, intricate vocal duets, and fast-paced arias. Overall, "Ciro in Babilonia" is a classic example of Rossini's bel canto style and is known for its beautiful melodies and intricate vocal runs. The opera premiered to critical acclaim and remains a popular work in the operatic repertoire.

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