Composer

:

Alessandro Scarlatti

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Cantata

Average_duration

:

8:32

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Il genio di Mitilde is an opera seria in three acts composed by Alessandro Scarlatti. The opera premiered on January 6, 1693, at the Teatro Capranica in Rome. The libretto was written by Silvio Stampiglia, a prominent librettist of the time. The opera tells the story of Mitilde, a princess who is in love with the warrior Alceste. However, Mitilde's father, the king, has promised her hand in marriage to the prince of a neighboring kingdom. The conflict between love and duty is a central theme of the opera. The first act opens with a chorus of nymphs and shepherds celebrating the beauty of nature. Mitilde enters and sings an aria expressing her love for Alceste. The prince arrives and declares his love for Mitilde, but she rejects him. Alceste then enters and sings an aria expressing his love for Mitilde. The second act begins with a chorus of warriors preparing for battle. Alceste and the prince engage in a duel, but are interrupted by the arrival of the king. The king orders Alceste to leave the kingdom, and Mitilde is forced to marry the prince. The third act opens with Mitilde and the prince's wedding ceremony. However, Alceste returns and challenges the prince to another duel. Alceste emerges victorious, and the king finally gives his blessing for Alceste and Mitilde to be together. Il genio di Mitilde is characterized by Scarlatti's use of expressive melodies and intricate harmonies. The arias are particularly notable for their virtuosic vocal lines and emotional intensity. The opera also features a number of ensemble pieces, including duets and choruses, which showcase Scarlatti's skill in writing for multiple voices. Overall, Il genio di Mitilde is a masterful example of Scarlatti's operatic style, and remains a popular work in the repertoire of Baroque opera.

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