Composer

:

Henry Purcell

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Opera: Semi-Opera

Compose Date

:

ca. 1694

Average_duration

:

12:26

Movement_count

:

9

Movement ....

The Virtuous Wife, or, Good Luck at Last is a semi-opera composed by Henry Purcell in 1693. It premiered at the Theatre Royal in London on May 4, 1693. The libretto was written by Thomas d'Urfey and is based on a play by Sir William Davenant. The semi-opera consists of spoken dialogue interspersed with musical numbers, including songs, duets, and choruses. The music is typical of Purcell's style, with catchy melodies, intricate harmonies, and expressive use of dissonance. The score also features a variety of instrumental accompaniments, including strings, winds, and continuo. The Virtuous Wife, or, Good Luck at Last is divided into five acts, each with its own set of musical numbers. The first act features a lively overture followed by a series of songs and duets that introduce the main characters and their relationships. The second act includes a humorous scene in which a group of country bumpkins attempt to court the virtuous wife, but are ultimately unsuccessful. The third act features a series of love songs and duets, including a beautiful aria sung by the virtuous wife. The fourth act is the most dramatic, with a series of confrontations and plot twists that lead to the resolution of the story. The music in this act is particularly intense, with dissonant harmonies and driving rhythms that reflect the tension and conflict on stage. The final act is a joyful celebration, with a series of lively choruses and a final duet between the virtuous wife and her husband. Overall, The Virtuous Wife, or, Good Luck at Last is a charming and entertaining work that showcases Purcell's skill as a composer of both vocal and instrumental music. The score is full of memorable melodies and expressive harmonies, and the libretto is witty and engaging. It remains a popular work in the repertoire of early English opera.

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