Composer

:

Franz von Suppé

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Operetta

Compose Date

:

1868

"Tantalusqualen" is an opera composed by Franz von Suppé, which premiered on October 17, 1850, at the Theater an der Wien in Vienna, Austria. The plot of the opera is based on the Greek myth of Tantalus, who was punished by the gods for his arrogance and pride. The opera is divided into three movements, each of which represents a different aspect of Tantalus' punishment. In the first movement, Tantalus is shown as a proud and arrogant king who is punished by the gods for his hubris. He is condemned to stand in a pool of water with fruit hanging above his head, but whenever he tries to reach for the fruit, it moves out of his reach. This movement is characterized by its dramatic and intense music, which reflects Tantalus' frustration and despair. The second movement of the opera focuses on Tantalus' daughter, Niobe, who is also punished by the gods for her father's sins. She is turned to stone and forced to stand in the mountains, where she weeps for her lost children. This movement is characterized by its mournful and melancholic music, which reflects Niobe's grief and sorrow. The final movement of the opera shows Tantalus' ultimate punishment, which is eternal damnation in the underworld. He is tormented by the Furies and forced to endure endless suffering and pain. This movement is characterized by its dark and ominous music, which reflects the horror and despair of Tantalus' punishment. Overall, "Tantalusqualen" is a powerful and emotional opera that explores themes of pride, hubris, and punishment. It is a testament to Franz von Suppé's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both dramatic and deeply moving.

More....