Composer

:

Heinrich August Marschner

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1827

Average_duration

:

129:28

Movement_count

:

21

Movement ....

Der Vampyr is an opera composed by Heinrich August Marschner in 1828. The plot revolves around the character of Lord Ruthven, a vampire who is trying to fulfill a pact with the devil by sacrificing three brides on the night of his 21st birthday. The opera is set in Scotland and features a mix of supernatural elements and romantic themes. The opera premiered on March 29, 1828, at the Theater der Stadt in Leipzig, Germany. It was an immediate success and quickly became one of Marschner's most popular works. The opera was also performed in other German cities, as well as in Vienna and London. Der Vampyr is divided into three acts and features a number of memorable musical movements. The opening chorus, "Hail to thee, night of love and mystery," sets the tone for the supernatural elements of the opera. Other notable movements include the aria "O thou, who in thy might supreme," sung by Lord Ruthven, and the duet "Oh, let me gaze upon thy face," sung by the two female leads, Malwina and Emmy. One of the characteristics of Der Vampyr is its use of Gothic themes and imagery. The opera features dark, brooding music and a sense of foreboding throughout. The character of Lord Ruthven is also a classic example of the vampire archetype, with his pale skin, sharp teeth, and thirst for blood. Another characteristic of the opera is its use of romantic themes. The two female leads, Malwina and Emmy, are both in love with the same man, Edgar Aubry. This love triangle adds an element of drama and tension to the story, as the women must compete for Edgar's affections while also trying to avoid becoming Lord Ruthven's next victim. Overall, Der Vampyr is a classic example of German Romantic opera, with its mix of supernatural elements and romantic themes. Its memorable music and Gothic imagery have made it a popular work among opera lovers for nearly two centuries.

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