Composer

:

Francesco Cavalli

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

ca. 1655

Average_duration

:

138:10

"Statira, Principessa di Persia" is an opera composed by Francesco Cavalli in 1656. The plot revolves around the love story of Statira, the daughter of the Persian king Darius, and Alexander the Great, the conqueror of Persia. The opera is set in the aftermath of the Battle of Issus, where Alexander has defeated Darius and taken Statira and her sister Roxana as prisoners. The opera is divided into three acts, each with its own set of arias, recitatives, and choruses. The first act introduces the characters and sets the stage for the love story between Statira and Alexander. The second act focuses on the conflict between Alexander and his general, Hephestion, who is also in love with Statira. The third act resolves the conflict and ends with the marriage of Statira and Alexander. The music of "Statira, Principessa di Persia" is characterized by its use of recitative, a style of singing that imitates speech and is used to advance the plot. The arias, on the other hand, are more melodic and expressive, and are used to convey the emotions of the characters. The opera also features a number of choruses, which are used to comment on the action and provide a sense of grandeur and spectacle. "Statira, Principessa di Persia" premiered in Venice in 1656 and was a great success. It was one of Cavalli's most popular operas and was performed throughout Europe in the years following its premiere. The opera is notable for its use of female singers in the lead roles, a departure from the tradition of using castrati. Overall, "Statira, Principessa di Persia" is a classic example of Baroque opera, with its elaborate sets, costumes, and music. It tells a timeless story of love and conflict, and showcases the talents of one of the greatest composers of the era.

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