Composer

:

Albert Lortzing

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1842

Average_duration

:

108:27

"Der Wildschütz" is an opera composed by Albert Lortzing in 1842. The plot revolves around the character of Baron Kronthal, who is in love with the Countess Eberbach. However, the Countess's father, the Prince, disapproves of the match and forbids them from seeing each other. In an attempt to win the Prince's favor, Kronthal decides to go hunting and bring back a wild boar as a gift. However, he accidentally shoots the Prince's favorite dog instead and is subsequently banished from the court. Kronthal then comes up with a plan to win back the Prince's favor by pretending to be a poacher and capturing the wild boar that has been causing havoc in the Prince's forest. He enlists the help of his friend, the gamekeeper, and together they successfully capture the boar. However, their plan is foiled when the Prince discovers that Kronthal is behind the poaching and banishes him once again. In the end, the Countess convinces her father to forgive Kronthal and they are reunited. The opera ends with a joyful celebration of their love. "Der Wildschütz" premiered on December 31, 1842, at the Stadttheater in Leipzig, Germany. It was an immediate success and quickly became one of Lortzing's most popular works. The opera is known for its catchy melodies, witty dialogue, and lighthearted humor. The music of "Der Wildschütz" is characterized by its use of folk melodies and dance rhythms. Lortzing was known for his ability to blend popular and classical styles, and this opera is a prime example of his skill in this area. The score includes several memorable arias and ensembles, including the famous duet "Wie freundlich strahlt die Sonne" (How friendly shines the sun). "Der Wildschütz" is divided into three acts and includes several musical movements, including a hunting chorus, a polonaise, and a waltz. The opera is also notable for its use of spoken dialogue instead of recitative, which was a departure from the traditional operatic style of the time. Overall, "Der Wildschütz" is a charming and entertaining opera that showcases Lortzing's talent for blending popular and classical styles. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and enduring musical qualities.

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