Composer

:

Saverio Mercadante

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1834

Average_duration

:

163:09

"Emma d'Antiochia" is an opera in three acts composed by Saverio Mercadante. The opera was first performed on March 28, 1834, at the Teatro San Carlo in Naples, Italy. The libretto was written by Salvadore Cammarano, who was a well-known librettist of the time. The plot of "Emma d'Antiochia" is set in the 12th century and revolves around the love story of Emma, the daughter of the King of Antioch, and Tancredi, the Prince of Galilee. The two fall in love at first sight, but their love is forbidden due to the ongoing war between their two kingdoms. Emma's father, King Ruben, wants her to marry the Prince of Jerusalem, but she refuses and declares her love for Tancredi. The two lovers are separated, and Tancredi is taken prisoner by the King of Antioch. In the second act, Emma is forced to marry the Prince of Jerusalem, but she still loves Tancredi. Tancredi manages to escape from prison and returns to Antioch to rescue Emma. He is successful, and the two flee to Galilee, where they are finally able to be together. The third act sees the two lovers facing new challenges as they try to build a life together. They are confronted by the Prince of Jerusalem, who wants to take revenge on Tancredi for stealing Emma from him. The two men engage in a duel, and Tancredi is mortally wounded. Emma is devastated by his death but is comforted by the knowledge that they were able to love each other, even if only for a short time. "Emma d'Antiochia" is known for its beautiful melodies and dramatic arias. The opera features a number of memorable musical moments, including the duet between Emma and Tancredi in the first act, the aria "Ah! Se tu dormi, o cara" sung by Tancredi in the second act, and the final duet between Emma and Tancredi in the third act. Overall, "Emma d'Antiochia" is a romantic and tragic opera that showcases Mercadante's skill as a composer. It is a testament to the enduring power of love and the sacrifices that people are willing to make for it.

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