Composer

:

Joseph Martin Kraus

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1781

Proserpina is an opera composed by Joseph Martin Kraus, a German-Swedish composer, in 1781. The opera is based on the myth of Proserpina, the Roman goddess of spring and queen of the underworld. The libretto was written by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a German writer and statesman. The plot of the opera revolves around the abduction of Proserpina by Pluto, the god of the underworld. Proserpina's mother, Ceres, the goddess of agriculture, is devastated by her daughter's disappearance and searches for her in vain. Meanwhile, Proserpina is trapped in the underworld and longs to return to the world above. She is courted by Pluto, who promises her power and wealth if she stays with him. However, Proserpina remains steadfast in her desire to return to her mother and the world above. The opera premiered on November 3, 1786, at the Royal Opera in Stockholm, Sweden. It was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and was praised for its innovative use of orchestration and vocal writing. The opera consists of three acts and is scored for a large orchestra, including strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. The first movement of the opera is characterized by its dramatic and intense music, which reflects the tension and conflict between Proserpina and Pluto. The second movement is more lyrical and introspective, as Proserpina reflects on her longing for the world above. The final movement is triumphant and celebratory, as Proserpina is reunited with her mother and the world above. Overall, Proserpina is a masterpiece of classical opera, combining innovative musical techniques with a timeless mythological story. It remains a popular work in the classical repertoire and is a testament to the genius of Joseph Martin Kraus.

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